UK, Canada, Australia recognise State of Palestine

September 21, 2025 / 6:51 PM

Sharjah 24 – WAM: The United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia have officially recognised the State of Palestine in a coordinated shift supporting the two-state solution. Leaders from the three nations stated that recognition is essential for long-term peace and security in the region, affirming the Palestinian right to self-determination. These moves reflect growing international support for Palestinian statehood amid rising tensions and concerns over the viability of a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

UK recognises State of Palestine

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the UK’s official recognition of the State of Palestine, calling it a critical step to preserving the two-state solution. The move is part of the government's manifesto commitment and is rooted in the Palestinian people's right to self-determination.

“Recognition is an important step to preserve the prospect of a two-state solution, at a time when it is now under unprecedented threat,” Starmer said in a statement via the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.

“Two states is the only way to safeguard long-term peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians alike.”

Starmer also stressed that Hamas will have no role in Palestine’s future, urging the group to immediately and unconditionally release all hostages.

Canada Joins in recognising Palestinian Statehood

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also announced Canada’s formal recognition of Palestine on Sunday.

“Canada recognises the State of Palestine and offers our partnership in building the promise of a peaceful future for both the State of Palestine and the State of Israel,” he said.

Carney added that the Palestinian Authority has made direct commitments to reform governance and hold general elections in 2026, which helped support Canada's decision.

Australia formalises recognition

Australia has officially recognised the State of Palestine, joining more than 150 countries worldwide. The move, initially previewed in August, was confirmed in a joint statement by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong.

“Australia recognises the legitimate and long-held aspirations of the people of Palestine to a state of their own,” the statement read.

“Today’s act of recognition reflects Australia’s longstanding commitment to a two-state solution.”

Growing global support for a two-state solution

The coordinated recognitions by the UK, Canada, and Australia reflect growing international momentum toward acknowledging Palestinian statehood as part of efforts to revive peace talks and reinforce the only globally endorsed framework for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.