September 23, 2025 – Momentum is building behind international recognition of Palestine as more nations, including key Western allies, announce formal support for Palestinian statehood.
Over 150 UN member states now recognize the State of Palestine, with a wave of recent recognitions from France, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Portugal, Belgium, Andorra, Malta, and Monaco. This marks a significant shift, as many of these countries had previously insisted that Palestinian statehood should only be achieved through negotiations with Israel.
The Palestinian leadership has hailed these moves as an “important and necessary step” toward achieving peace and a two-state solution. Recognition boosts Palestine’s international standing, allowing it to expand diplomatic relations, open embassies, and press its case in global forums.
However, not all recognitions are unconditional. Nations such as Italy have tied their recognition to specific requirements, including the release of Israeli hostages and the exclusion of Hamas from governance. Critics warn that symbolic gestures may have little immediate impact on the ground, where the conflict continues to displace thousands.
Israel has strongly condemned the recognitions, arguing that they undermine peace talks and embolden militant groups. Meanwhile, global debate continues over whether recognition helps advance peace or deepens divisions.
