A growing number of countries are pledging to recognize a Palestinian state, with more than 145 nations now backing international recognition in a move that is reshaping global diplomacy. Most countries that recognize Palestine did so in 1988, following the Palestine National Council’s declaration of statehood. Over the years, many non-Western nations joined the recognition wave throughout the 1990s, 2000s, and 2010s.
In the spring of 2024, the movement gained fresh momentum as several European and Caribbean nations, including Barbados, Ireland, Jamaica, Norway, and Spain, officially recognized Palestine. At the time, Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu “to listen to the world and stop the humanitarian catastrophe we are seeing in Gaza.”
More countries announce plans to recognize a Palestinian state
Belgium, Australia, Portugal, Canada and Malta announced plans to join Britain and France in recognizing Palestinian statehood, joining more than 140 other countries.
Countries that have recognized a Palestinian state
This September, the push has intensified. Australia, Belgium, Canada, and France have announced plans to recognize Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly, while the United Kingdom has stated it is prepared to extend recognition if Israel does not meet conditions that include agreeing to a Gaza ceasefire.
The latest declarations have left the United States increasingly isolated from some of its closest allies. Washington remains opposed to unilateral recognition, even as Israel faces mounting criticism over its military campaign in Gaza and restrictions on humanitarian aid deliveries.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry has rejected the European calls for recognition, describing them as a “reward to Hamas” and warning that they undermine ongoing ceasefire efforts.
US President Donald Trump has also strongly criticized the push, standing firmly by Israel despite what international agencies have described as a worsening humanitarian disaster. The United Nations and humanitarian organizations have accused Israel’s blockade of aid into Gaza of fueling a starvation crisis affecting millions.
With more countries aligning behind Palestinian statehood, pressure is building on Israel and the US to rethink their positions. The UN meeting in New York this month could prove to be a turning point in one of the world’s most enduring and polarizing conflicts.
About The Author
