LONDON/OTTAWA/CANBERRA — In a coordinated diplomatic shift, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia on Sunday announced their official recognition of the State of Palestine, marking a historic move in Western foreign policy and a potential boost for Palestinian aspirations of statehood.
A coordinated announcement
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney was the first to declare recognition, criticizing Israel’s settlement expansion and what he described as efforts to block a two-state solution. He stressed that Hamas must play no role in Palestine’s future, calling the group a “terror organization that has cheated the Palestinian people of their life and liberty.”
In London, Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed the UK’s recognition, saying it was aimed at “keeping alive the possibility of peace” and a genuine two-state solution. Starmer added that Britain’s stance is “the exact opposite of Hamas’s hateful vision” and vowed new sanctions against Hamas leaders.
Soon after, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese followed suit, affirming support for “the legitimate and long-held aspirations of the Palestinian people” and signaling plans to establish an embassy once the Palestinian Authority delivers on governance reforms.
Palestinian reaction
The Palestinian Foreign Ministry welcomed the move, calling it “courageous” and consistent with international law. It urged other countries to “stand on the right side of history” by taking the same step.
Global implications
More than 140 countries already recognize Palestine, but Sunday’s announcement makes Canada the first G7 nation to do so. The decision also puts the three allies at odds with President Donald Trump, who voiced disapproval after a recent visit to London, saying he “disagreed with the prime minister on that score.”
Israel, which continues to oppose the creation of a Palestinian state, strongly condemned the move, calling it an “immoral reward” that undermines security. Critics argue recognition is symbolic while Palestinian governance remains split between the West Bank and Gaza.
What comes next?
With the UN General Assembly set to meet this week, more countries — including France — are expected to follow suit. The recognition by three Western powers is seen as a diplomatic gamble, one that could either revive the push for peace or deepen political divides in the Middle East.
