In a landmark move, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia officially recognised the State of Palestine on Sunday. Soon after, Portugal also followed, calling it a “fundamental line of Portuguese foreign policy” and urging an immediate ceasefire.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced:
“Today, to revive the hope of peace for the Palestinians and Israelis, and a two-state solution, the United Kingdom formally recognises the State of Palestine.”
This recognition is aimed at reviving peace talks and bringing an end to the ongoing Israel–Gaza war, which has killed more than 60,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s health ministry.
✋ Opposition from US and Israel
- United States and Israel strongly opposed the move.
- The US State Department termed the recognition “performative,” stressing instead on diplomacy, hostages’ release, and Israel’s security.
- Israel said such recognition “rewards Hamas and terrorism.”
📌 Full List of Countries Recognising Palestine
According to AFP, 145 of 193 UN member states now recognise Palestine. This includes:
- Arab Nations – All Arab League members (Egypt, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Jordan, etc.)
- Asia – India, China, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and others
- Africa – South Africa, Nigeria, Algeria, and most African Union members
- Latin America – Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Bolivia, etc.
- Europe – Sweden, Ireland, Norway, Spain, Iceland, Czech Republic (partial), and now UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal
📊 Recognition by Key Blocs
| Bloc | Members Recognising Palestine | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| UN (193) | 145+ | Majority of world already in support |
| NATO (32) | 17 (after UK, Canada, Portugal) | Expected to rise further with France, Belgium |
| G20 (20) | 13 | Includes India, China, Brazil, South Africa, etc. |
🇮🇳 Where Does India Stand?
- India recognised Palestine in 1988, immediately after the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) declared independence.
- Even earlier, in 1974, India recognised the PLO as the sole legitimate representative of the Palestinian people.
- India continues to support a two-state solution, advocating for peaceful coexistence between Israel and Palestine.
- India is also set to participate in a UN high-level conference on the peaceful settlement of the Palestinian issue, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia.
📅 Historical Timeline of Recognition
- 1988 – Algeria first recognised Palestine within minutes of the PLO declaration.
- 1988 onwards – Majority of Arab, African, Asian, and Latin American nations recognised.
- 2014 – Sweden became the first EU nation to officially recognise Palestine.
- 2025 – UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal joined the list, adding weight from the West.
🎯 Bottom Line
The recognition of Palestine is gaining momentum globally despite strong opposition from Israel and the US. With more Western powers now acknowledging Palestinian statehood, pressure is mounting for a two-state solution.
India’s position has been clear and consistent for decades — recognition of Palestine while also maintaining diplomatic relations with Israel. As the Israel–Gaza war continues, the coming months may see more countries join the list of recognisers.
