Global Shift: UK, Canada, and Australia Recognize Palestinian State Amid Growing International Support

The United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada have formally recognized the State of Palestine ahead of the U.N. General Assembly this week. “Today, to revive the hope of peace for the Palestinians and Israelis, and a two-state solution, the United Kingdom formally recognizes the State of Palestine,” said United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Canada recognized a Palestinian state on Sunday despite opposition from the U.S., with the aim of paving the way for peace based on two states living side by side. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the decision on the social platform X, noting his prior commitment in late July to take this step as many Western nations grow increasingly frustrated with the intensifying conflict in Gaza. “Today, Canada recognizes the State of Palestine,” Carney stated.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese declared in a statement, “Effective today, Sunday the 21st of September 2025, the Commonwealth of Australia formally recognizes the independent and sovereign State of Palestine.” He emphasized that the move acknowledges the “legitimate and long-held aspirations of the people of Palestine to a state of their own.” Israel and the United States have consistently opposed recognizing Palestinian statehood during the Gaza conflict, framing it as a “reward” for Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated this stance in response to Canada’s recognition, calling it a “prize” for Hamas and asserting that a Palestinian state “will not happen.”
At the U.N. General Assembly next week, additional nations have pledged to recognize Palestine, including France. While such recognition is largely symbolic and does not directly influence Israeli actions in occupied territories, it reflects expanding global support for Palestine. Currently, 147 of the 193 UN member states have recognized Palestinian statehood. However, this does not grant Palestine an official seat at the UN, which requires approval by the Security Council. The U.S., a permanent Security Council member with veto power, has already rejected calls for recognition at this time.