Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sharply criticized the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Portugal for their decision to formally recognize the State of Palestine. The move, seen as part of a broader push to revive the two-state solution, was labeled by Netanyahu as “rewarding terror” in a fiery statement delivered before his return from the United States.
“There will be no Palestinian state west of the Jordan River,” Netanyahu declared. “To those nations recognizing a Palestinian state after the horrific October 7 attack, I say clearly: you are granting terror a massive reward.” He vowed to address the issue further upon his return, emphasizing Israel’s unwavering opposition to Palestinian sovereignty in the region. “For years, I’ve blocked the creation of a terror state despite immense pressure from within and outside Israel,” he added, highlighting his government’s expansion of Jewish settlements in Judea and Samaria.
Western Allies Shift Toward Palestinian Recognition
The decision by the UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal aligns them with over 140 countries that recognize Palestinian statehood, marking a notable shift among nations traditionally supportive of Israel. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer justified the move, stating, “Recognizing Palestine is a step toward renewing hope for peace and a two-state solution.” He described Gaza’s humanitarian crisis as “man-made” and condemned the ongoing Israeli military operations as “unacceptable” amid widespread destruction and starvation.
Portugal and Australia similarly framed their recognition as both symbolic and practical, aiming to encourage renewed negotiations. Canada’s decision, unexpected given its historically cautious stance, reflected concerns over Gaza’s unsustainable conditions. The announcements come as France and other European nations are expected to consider similar moves at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Gaza’s Humanitarian Toll Fuels Global Action
The recognitions follow a devastating Israeli military campaign in Gaza, launched in response to Hamas’s October 7 attack, which killed 1,200 Israelis and saw 251 taken hostage. Local health officials report over 65,000 Palestinian deaths, predominantly civilians, with Gaza facing near-total destruction, widespread famine, and repeated displacement of its population. These conditions have driven international calls for action, with Western leaders citing the crisis as a key factor in their diplomatic shift.
Netanyahu’s Uncompromising Position
Netanyahu remains steadfast in rejecting Palestinian statehood, tying the recognitions to the October 7 attack and framing them as a threat to Israel’s security. “A Palestinian state would empower terror, not peace,” he argued, reiterating his commitment to expanding Israeli settlements in occupied territories. His stance has drawn criticism from those who see Israel’s policies as obstructing long-term stability, while his supporters argue that unilateral recognition undermines Israel’s security.
Global Divide and Upcoming UN Session
The recognitions highlight growing international frustration with the Israeli-Palestinian stalemate, amplified by Gaza’s dire humanitarian situation. As the UN General Assembly convenes, attention will focus on whether more nations follow suit and how Israel responds. Netanyahu’s promise of a forthcoming response signals continued resistance to external pressure, even from close allies.
The debate reflects a broader split: one side views recognition as a step toward peace, while the other warns it risks escalating the conflict. For now, the divide remains stark, with no clear path to resolution in sight.
