The United Kingdom, along with Canada and Australia, finally recognised the state of Palestine. This comes just before the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The growing horror in the Middle East convinced Starmer to make the decision. The recognition is not to support Hamas, countries clarified. This decision comes amid the ongoing Israeli attack on Gaza City.
On 21 September 2025, the United Kingdom, under the Prime Minister Keir Starmer, along with Canada, under the Prime Minister Mark Caney and Australia under the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, formally recognised the State of Palestine. This is being called as a coordinated diplomatic move, just before the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). This recognition is viewed as symbolic, largely because these countries have been strong Western allies of Israel.
PM Starmer said the decision was made “in the face of the growing horror in the Middle East” and to “keep alive the possibility of peace and a Two-State Solution” Mr Starmer also emphasised that the recognition of the Palestinian state would not reflect a reward for Hamas. He noted that the UK had recognised Israel decades ago, and now joins with over 150 countries to recognise the Palestinian State.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said recognition is just a part of an effort to bring a peaceful future for both Israel and Palestine. Mr Carney also clarified that the recognition does not legitimise terrorism. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanses, together with the Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, said their recognition of Palestine is meant to reinforce momentum for a two-state solution.
Israel strongly condemned the recognition of the Palestinian state by the Nations. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly rejected the move. Mr Netanyahu said, “A Palestinian state will not happen. It will not be established west of the Jordan River.” He also said on the issue that recognising Palestine would be a reward to Hamas, and he considers the recognition deeply problematic.
The recognition comes amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza, and Israeli military orders to evacuate Gaza City, including heavy casualties and large-scale humanitarian distress. Also, there has been concern about settlement expansion in the West Bank, which many see as undermining the possibility of a visible Palestinian state.
The UK had been handling the pressure from MPs and public opinion for a more assertive stance, and Starmer had previously said Britain would recognise Palestine in September unless certain criteria were met.
This is a major diplomatic shift for Western nations, as they have historically been wary of unilaterally recognising Palestine without negotiations in place. The move may put pressure on more countries, especially ahead of the UNGA. Reports say France is expected to follow suit. This can affect the UK-Israel relations.
