Armenia officially recognizes Palestine as independent state

Yerevan: Armenia on Friday officially recognized the State of Palestine, denouncing the "violence towards civilian populations" in the ongoing Gaza conflict.

Numerous countries have recently acknowledged the State of Palestine amidst the Israel-Hamas war, drawing strong objections from Israeli authorities.

In its declaration, Yerevan reaffirmed its commitment to international law, national equality, sovereignty and peaceful coexistence while recognizing the State of Palestine. Armenia voiced a sincere interest in fostering long-term peace and stability in the Middle East.

Condemning Israel's military actions in Gaza, Armenia criticized the use of civilian infrastructure as shields and the violence inflicted on civilians. The statement also denounced Hamas for taking civilians captive and supported the international community's calls for their release.

Hussein Al-Sheikh, a senior official of the Palestinian Authority, welcomed Armenia's decision, calling it a triumph for justice, legitimacy, and the Palestinian struggle for liberation and independence. He expressed his gratitude to Armenia.

The Gaza conflict began with Hamas's attack on southern Israel on October 7, leading to 1,194 deaths, mostly civilians, according to Israeli official figures reported by AFP. In retaliation, Israel's offensive has resulted in at least 37,431 deaths in Gaza, predominantly civilians, according to the territory's health ministry.

Israel, a key arms supplier to Armenia's neighboring adversary Azerbaijan, has been engaged in a prolonged territorial dispute with Yerevan over the Nagorno-Karabakh region, which Baku reclaimed from Armenian separatists last year.