UK, Canada, Australia formally recognize Palestine as a state

London: The United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia have formally recognized Palestine as a state.

The UK had previously issued an ultimatum to Israel in July, stating that if Israel failed to take steps to end the ongoing crisis in Gaza, the UK would officially recognize Palestine as a state by September.

In a statement shared on social media platform X, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “To keep the hope of peace and a two-state solution alive for both Palestinians and Israelis, the United Kingdom is formally recognizing Palestine as a state.”

The British Prime Minister added that Hamas should have no role in the governance or security of Palestine.

Canada has also officially recognized Palestine as a state. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said: “The Israeli government is pursuing a deliberate strategy to block the creation of a Palestinian state.”

He added that the Palestinian Authority has assured Canada and the international community that it will carry out necessary reforms, including: Fundamental changes to the governance structure, Holding general elections by 2026, with no role for Hamas, Disarming the future Palestinian state.

The Australian government has also announced its recognition of Palestine as a state, stating that this move is part of international efforts to achieve a two-state solution.

Australia emphasized that Hamas must have no role in Palestine.

The Australian government also stated that, once the assurances given by the Palestinian Authority are fulfilled, it will consider establishing diplomatic relations with Palestine, including opening embassies.