Britain, Canada and Australia Recognize palestinian State, Increasing International pressure on Israel
London, Ottawa, and Canberra formally recognized a Palestinian state Wednesday, a coordinated move signaling growing international momentum for Palestinian statehood and deepening Israel’s diplomatic isolation. The decisions come amid escalating violence in Gaza and renewed efforts to broker a lasting peace agreement.
The recognition by the three countries - all members of the G7 - marks a significant shift in policy and reflects increasing frustration with the ongoing conflict and stalled peace process. While symbolic, the move is expected to bolster Palestinian diplomatic efforts and further pressure Israel to engage in meaningful negotiations. Canada and the UK are the first G7 nations to take this step, though Japan, italy, and Germany remain opposed.
Basem Naim, a senior member of Hamas‘ political office, told CNN the move is a “welcomed step,” but must be accompanied by “practical measures on the ground.”
Despite the growing momentum, full United Nations membership for Palestine faces substantial hurdles. The path requires at least nine of the 15 members of the Security council to vote in favor, with none of the five permanent members – Britain, China, France, Russia, and the US – exercising their veto power. The United States is widely expected to veto any such resolution.
China and russia recognized a Palestinian state in 1988. Should the US maintain its current position, it would stand alone among permanent Security Council members in not recognizing Palestinian statehood, further highlighting Washington’s role as a key ally of Israel amidst increasing international criticism.
CNN’s Abeer Salman, Dana Karni, Caitlin Danaher and Billy stockwell contributed to this report.
