The question of recognizing Palestine as a state has been debated for decades. Despite extensive discussion, many Western countries have yet to take formal steps toward official recognition. While approximately 146 countries already recognize Palestine as a state, it still lacks universal official status.
In this blog post, I will explore why the issue of Palestinian statehood has resurfaced so prominently in recent weeks. We’ll also examine the arguments for and against formal recognition by major players such as Canada, the UK, France, and Germany — as well as why the United States remains opposed.
WHAT IS PALESTINE?
Palestine is often understood as a geographic region in the Middle East, but its political definition is more complex. Today, the term typically refers to the Palestinian territories—the West Bank and Gaza Strip—areas that have long been central to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. These regions are home to millions of Palestinians who share a distinct national identity, culture, and history.
The modern conflict’s roots trace back to the aftermath of World War II, when the United Nations proposed partitioning the British-controlled Palestine mandate into separate Jewish and Arab states. In 1948, Israel declared independence, leading to a war with neighboring Arab countries and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians. This event, known as the Nakba (or "catastrophe" in Arabic), marked a significant turning point, shaping decades of tension and territorial disputes.
In 1988, the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) declared the establishment of the State of Palestine. Since then, more than 130 UN member states have extended recognition. However, key global powers, including the United States and many European nations, have withheld official recognition, impacting Palestine’s international status. Although Palestine holds non-member observer state status at the United Nations, it has yet to achieve full membership, which limits its diplomatic influence on the world stage.
SO WHY NOT RECOGNISE IT AS A STATE TO BEGIN WITH?
So, why haven’t some countries officially recognized Palestine as a state? One major reason is the complex nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict—not just the events of October 7, but the decades leading up to it. Many Israeli allies see recognition as a highly political act that could impact peace negotiations and regional stability. They often argue that official recognition should come only as part of a negotiated agreement between Israelis and Palestinians—a so-called “two-state solution.” This cautious approach highlights how divided Western countries remain on the issue and how keenly aware they are of the diplomatic tensions that could result from rushing into recognition.
Another key factor is the influence of powerful allies and their geopolitical interests. For example, the United States has long been a strong ally of Israel, maintaining close diplomatic and military ties. This relationship has shaped American opposition to Palestinian statehood. Similarly, some European countries worry about the broader implications that recognizing Palestine might have on their own relations with Israel.
However, this dynamic appears to be shifting, as many Western countries are adopting a more assertive stance toward Israel in recent times.
ISRAEL IS WINNING THE WAR, BUT LOSING THE GLOBAL STAGE
Western allies increasingly feel that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his cabinet are going too far in the war in Gaza. The humanitarian toll is staggering—countless civilians, including many children, have died or suffered immensely. Food shortages and the risk of famine are critical, hospitals are overwhelmed or struggling to operate, and many people are dying from treatable conditions due to lack of medical supplies.
No one disputes Israel’s right to defend itself—especially after the horrific October 7th Hamas attack and the ongoing ordeal faced by hostages, many of whom were killed or died in captivity. However, nearly two years into the conflict, international sympathy has shifted, with growing condemnation of Israel for what many see as disproportionate and excessive military actions.
Several factors contribute to this shift. Both Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant face ICC arrest warrants for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity related to the conflict. Despite repeated calls from Western allies to de-escalate, Netanyahu has reportedly authorized a full military occupation of Gaza.
Meanwhile, far-right ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir have publicly called for Palestinians to leave Gaza—Smotrich advocating "voluntary emigration" as a solution, and Ben-Gvir supporting Jewish settlement and rejecting any Israeli withdrawal. Their rhetoric has drawn sharp international criticism, with the U.S. labeling it irresponsible and countries like the Netherlands banning them for what they describe as support for ethnic cleansing.
SO, WHY RECOGNISE PALESTINE NOW?
Last month, a significant diplomatic shift occurred as several Western nations announced plans to recognize the State of Palestine at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in September. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed that Canada would formally recognize Palestine, contingent upon the Palestinian Authority implementing democratic reforms, including elections scheduled for 2026, anti-corruption measures, and the exclusion of Hamas from governance. Similarly, French President Emmanuel Macron pledged recognition, emphasizing the urgency of a two-state solution. The United Kingdom, under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, stated that recognition would proceed unless Israel agreed to a ceasefire, halted annexation plans in the West Bank, and committed to a long-term peace process. Germany expressed cautious support, urging renewed dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians.
These announcements were part of a broader initiative known as the "New York Call," co-signed by 15 countries, advocating for the recognition of Palestine as a step toward a two-state solution.
MY OPINION
It’s hard for me to form a clear opinion because this is such a complicated issue. On one hand, recognizing Palestine as a state would support their self-determination and boost their diplomatic standing, which could help with peace talks. But on the other hand, it risks upsetting Israel, who is strongly against it, and could strain relationships with Western allies while raising concerns about stability in the region. This definitely needs careful thought and analysis.
I also feel like some Western countries are reacting to Israel’s harsh actions in Gaza by pushing for recognition. But honestly, there isn’t a strong reason to recognize Palestine right now—Hamas still holds hostages, and there’s no clear leadership for a new state beyond an aging president and armed groups.
CONCLUSION
The question of recognizing Palestine as a state is deeply complex, balancing the urgent need to support Palestinian self-determination against the risks of escalating tensions and destabilizing an already fragile region.
While growing international calls for recognition reflect frustration with stalled peace efforts and humanitarian crises, unresolved leadership issues and ongoing conflict, including hostage situations, make timing and approach critical. Ultimately, any move toward recognition must be carefully weighed to promote lasting peace, justice, and stability in one of the world’s most challenging conflicts.
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