Kathmandu: In a historic shift in Western foreign policy, Britain, Australia, and Canada on Sunday formally recognised Palestine as a state, becoming the first G7 members to take such a step.

Israel’s Strong Opposition

Israel’s Foreign Ministry swiftly condemned the move, calling it a “unilateral decision” that would only destabilise the region. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused the countries of “rewarding terrorism” and claimed the recognition threatened Israel’s existence. Israel has insisted that stability can only be achieved through the release of hostages and disarmament of Hamas.

Palestinian Welcome

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas hailed the recognition as “necessary and crucial” for lasting peace, urging an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian aid access, the release of hostages, and a full Israeli withdrawal. Senior Hamas official Mahmoud Mardawi also called it a victory for Palestinian rights, saying it sent a clear message that Israel could not erase Palestinian national identity.

Growing International Pressure

The decision comes amid mounting international pressure on Israel over the Gaza war, which has created a severe humanitarian crisis. Since Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, that killed 1,219 Israeli civilians, more than 65,000 Palestinians—mostly civilians—have been killed in Israeli military operations, according to figures from the Hamas-run Health Ministry, cited by the UN as credible.

Momentum Towards Two-State Solution

The recognition is expected to influence other Western countries. France, Portugal, and others have indicated readiness to follow suit, with French President Emmanuel Macron signalling support ahead of talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Macron, however, tied recognition to the release of hostages held by Hamas.

The UN General Assembly, opening Monday in New York with more than 140 world leaders in attendance, is expected to focus heavily on the Gaza conflict, Palestinian statehood, and prospects for a two-state solution.

Abbas Denied US Visa

Despite the developments, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas will not attend the Assembly in person, after being denied a US visa. However, a special UN resolution allows him to address the Assembly via videoconference.

Wider Global Issues on UN Agenda

Alongside the Gaza war, leaders will also discuss Iran’s nuclear program, the Russia-Ukraine war, and regional security concerns. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged proactive measures, saying the international community must “create pressure for peace” in the Middle East.