Protesters wave flags in support of Palestinians in Los Angeles on Oct. 12, 2023. John Fredricks/The Epoch Times
Canada, Australia, and the UK recognized a Palestinian state on Sept. 21.
The announcement was made ahead of the U.N. General Assembly in New York City; the countries had pledged to recognize a Palestinian state before the summit.
“Today, to revive the hope of peace for the Palestinians and Israelis, and a two state solution, the United Kingdom formally recognizes the State of Palestine,” British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said in a statement.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said in a statement: “Since 1947, it has been the policy of every Canadian government to support a two-state solution for lasting peace in the Middle East. This envisioned the creation of a sovereign, democratic and viable State of Palestine, building its future in peace and security alongside the State of Israel.
“Hamas has terrorized the people of Israel and oppressed the people of Gaza, wreaking horrific suffering. It is imperative that Hamas release all hostages, fully disarm and play no role in the future governance of Palestine. Hamas has stolen from the Palestinian people, cheated them of their life and liberty, and can in no way dictate their future.
“The current Israeli government is working methodically to prevent the prospect of a Palestinian state from ever being established. … It is in this context that Canada recognizes the State of Palestine and offers our partnership in building the promise of a peaceful future for both the State of Palestine and the State of Israel.”
Carney said the recognition is not rewarding terrorism and does not compromise Canadian support for Israel.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said in a statement, “Today’s act of recognition reflects Australia’s longstanding commitment to a two-state solution, which has always been the only path to enduring peace and security for the Israeli and the Palestinian peoples.”
Albanese said the Hamas terrorist group can have no role in a Palestinian state.
“The President of the Palestinian Authority [Mahmoud Abbas] has restated its recognition of Israel’s right to exist, and given direct undertakings to Australia, including commitments to hold democratic elections and enact significant reform to finance, governance and education,” he said.
“Further steps, including the establishment of diplomatic relations and opening of embassies, will be considered as the Palestinian Authority makes progress on its commitments to reform.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said recognition of Palestinian statehood by the three countries amounts to giving a “prize” to Hamas, adding that there will be no Palestinian state.
“It will not happen,” he said. “A Palestinian state will not be established west of the Jordan River.”
The United States has also criticized countries recognizing Palestinian statehood, with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio calling France’s earlier move to recognize a Palestinian state a “reckless decision” that “only serves Hamas propaganda and sets back peace.”
“It is a slap in the face to the victims of October 7th,” Rubio said on X in July.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
