Why it matters:
The coordinated push to recognize Palestine signals a major shift in Western policy, reflecting mounting frustration with Israel's continued assault on Gaza and an urgent global demand for a political solution to the conflict.
What they’re saying:
Portugal’s Prime Minister, Luis Montenegro, announced on Thursday that his government will formally recognize the State of Palestine in the upcoming UN General Assembly session.
U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that London will move forward with recognition in September unless Israel takes “substantive steps” to end the war.
Canadian PM Mark Carney echoed the UK’s stance, pledging Canada’s support for Palestinian statehood at the same UN session.
Still more:
France and Malta are reportedly preparing to join the initiative, signaling a coordinated European effort.
Sweden and the Netherlands have called for the suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement unless aid access to aid to Gaza is restored.
Germany’s Foreign Ministry acknowledged Israel’s growing isolation and noted a “critical mass” of countries are now backing recognition without conditions.
The EU-Israel Association Agreement is under review as calls grow to freeze trade ties due to Israel’s blockade.
Zoom in:
- Gaza’s death toll since October 2023 has exceeded 60,249, with more than 147,000 injured, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.
- At least 91 civilians were killed in one day while waiting for humanitarian aid.
- The Israeli military faces internal crises, with seven soldier suicides in July alone, and 24 since 2024.
Zoom out:
- International legal and political efforts to hold Israel accountable are gaining traction.
- Several nations are backing ICC and ICJ proceedings over the Israeli war crimes.
- The emerging recognition of Palestine is evolving into a geopolitical strategy to reshape the conflict’s resolution framework.
- Israel’s long-standing allies, including Germany and Canada, are showing signs of policy divergence.
Between the lines:
Gaza crisis may mark a turning point where diplomatic recognition becomes a tool to pressure the U.S.-backed Israeli regime into compliance with international law.
Go deeper:
Canada to Recognize Palestinian State at UN Assembly
World Health Organization Warns Over Malnutrition in Gaza
ahmad shirzadian - seyed mohammad kazemi
