The United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia announced on Sunday their official recognition of the State of Palestine, in what has been described as a historic step within broader international efforts to revive the two-state solution and restore hope for peace.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, speaking at a press conference, said the recognition aims to “keep the possibility of peace and the two-state solution alive,” stressing that his country “will not allow the light of this hope to be extinguished.”
“We have today joined more than 150 countries that recognize the State of Palestine,” he added, clarifying that the move “is not a reward for Hamas,” which, he emphasized, “will have no role in future governance or security.”
Starmer further announced that his government will impose new sanctions on Hamas figures, while urging the group to immediately release all hostages. He also called on Israel to end its “harsh practices” and to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said his country took this step “to end the status quo that Israel has systematically maintained to prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state.” He described the recognition as “part of a coordinated international effort to support the two-state solution,” and underscored that Hamas must disarm and play no future role in governing Palestine.
In Sydney, the Australian government also declared its recognition of the State of Palestine, noting that the decision is part of “international efforts to uphold the Palestinians’ right to establish an independent state and to achieve a comprehensive peaceful settlement in the region.”
