Recognition of Palestine forms a legal status, strengthens international support, and raises political issues.

Criticism of the Recognition of the Palestinian State

Israeli President Isaac Herzog sharply criticized the decision of Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom to recognize the Palestinian state. He noted that this step does not contribute to peace and “encourages the forces of darkness.” Herzog emphasized that recognition will not free Israeli hostages and will not bring peace negotiations between the conflicting parties closer.

The Symbolism of Palestine’s Status

According to the BBC, Palestine has a status that is difficult to fully define. The state has broad international support, diplomatic representations, and its own teams at the Olympic Games. However, over the years of conflict with Israel, it has failed to secure official borders, a capital, or armed forces.

Historical Context

After the peace agreements of the 1990s, the Palestinian Authority was established, receiving limited powers over the territories. The West Bank remains under occupation, and military actions continue in Gaza. In this context, the recognition of Palestine carries more moral-political significance than practical changes.

At a UN meeting in July, former UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy pointed to London’s “special responsibility” to support the creation of two states, referring to the Balfour Declaration of 1917. The document declared the right of the Jewish people to create a “national home” but did not mention the rights of the “Palestinians.”

Current Situation

Currently, about 75% of UN member states recognize the Palestinian state. Its status as a “non-member observer state” allows it to participate in General Assembly meetings but does not grant voting rights.

Growth in Support for Recognition

The list of countries planning to recognize Palestine continues to grow. The United Kingdom, France, Canada, Australia, Belgium, and Malta have expressed their intention to support this step. If further recognition occurs, Palestine will receive diplomatic support from four of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, as China and Russia recognized it in 1988.

Meanwhile, the United States remains the only major state not to have recognized Palestine. However, since the mid-1990s, Washington has supported the Palestinian Authority, led by Mahmoud Abbas, declaring the intention to ultimately create a Palestinian state, although this support is limited.

Changes in Approaches

As the BBC explains, the United Kingdom and other states have long postponed the recognition of Palestine, believing that the step should be part of a comprehensive peace process. Previous administrations held the view that this should occur “at the moment of maximum influence.” However, the current humanitarian situation in Gaza refutes this approach.

Critical Circumstances

The reaction of governments to humanitarian crises in Gaza, as well as public outrage at Israel’s actions, have become factors contributing to a reassessment of the position.

Some states have set conditions for recognition. Canada has stated that it will agree to recognition only on the condition of reforms in the Palestinian Authority, the organization of elections in 2026, and the demilitarization of the forthcoming state.

The Position of the USA and Consequences

The administration of Donald Trump rejected the idea of recognizing Palestine. The US President stated existing disagreements with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. However, both politicians confirmed the discussion of the issue during a meeting.

Values and Concerns

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the recognition of Palestine could strengthen the positions of Hamas, which aligns with Israel’s arguments, viewing it as a “reward for terrorism” following the attacks on October 7, 2023. Rubio also warned of possible consequences for the region, including the risk of Israel annexing parts of the West Bank.

Prospects for Recognition

Despite the complex situation, the actions of some countries in recognizing Palestine may contribute to the political process and the search for ways to end military actions in Gaza. This approach may not only change the dynamics of the conflict but also inspire new initiatives to achieve peace in the region.

At the same time, Germany does not plan to recognize Palestine in the near future, indicating the ambiguity of the international community’s positions on this issue.