UK, Canada and Australia recognise Palestine in coordinated move

The United Kingdom, Canada and Australia recognised the State of Palestine on September 21, 2025. The announcements were made in a coordinated move ahead of UN meetings in New York. Leaders said the step aims to keep a two-state solution alive. They also stressed that Hamas will have no role in any future Palestinian government.

The decisions mark a sharp policy shift. Each government framed recognition as support for peace and international law. The move comes as fighting and civilian harm continue in Gaza and the West Bank.

What the recognition means, who said what, and why now

Britain said recognition will help revive talks for two states. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the goal is a secure Israel next to a viable Palestine. He said the move is not a reward for Hamas. He also signalled more sanctions on Hamas figures. According to Reuters and the Associated Press, this is the first time the UK has taken this step outside a final peace deal.

Canada announced recognition with a call for reforms by the Palestinian Authority. Prime Minister Mark Carney said recognition backs self-determination and human rights. He said Hamas cannot be part of the future state. Reuters noted Canada’s shift from its long-held stance. Reports say Ottawa expects elections and security reforms.

Australia confirmed recognition and aligned with allies. Leaders said the aim is to support a path to peace and international law. ABC News reported the decision places Australia among more than 150 states that recognise Palestine. The timing links with the UN General Assembly week.

Israel criticised the moves. It said recognition rewards terrorism and weakens leverage. Supporters argue the opposite. They say recognition protects the last chance for a lawful two-state outcome. AP and BBC reports highlighted both reactions.

Impact, next steps, and key risks

The practical effect is modest at first. Recognition upgrades diplomatic ties and legal standing. It also shapes global debate and signals pressure for talks. It may influence other capitals ahead of UN sessions. Analysts told major outlets that momentum could grow if Europe joins in more force.

The risks are clear. There is no final map, no agreed borders, and no ceasefire. Governance gaps remain in Palestinian areas. Israel’s government rejects a Palestinian state for now. That means tensions may rise before talks advance. Humanitarian needs in Gaza also remain acute, as widely reported by AP and Reuters.

The next steps will be watched at the UN. The three governments plan more engagement with partners. They say any future state must be reformed and demilitarised. They also call for the release of captives and an end to attacks on civilians. Diplomatic activity will test if recognition can shift facts on the ground.

The UK, Canada and Australia recognise Palestine to keep a two-state path open. The test starts now. The road will be hard, but the goal is clear.

Info at your fingertips-

Q1: What did the UK, Canada and Australia announce?

They recognised the State of Palestine on September 21, 2025. Each said the step supports a two-state solution. They said Hamas will have no role in a future Palestinian government.

Q2: Why is this important now?

Leaders say the two-state path is at risk. Recognition aims to keep talks alive and uphold international law. It also sends a signal before UN meetings.

Q3: Does recognition create a state on the ground?

No. It changes diplomatic status and posture. Borders, security, and governance still need talks and agreements.

Q4: How did Israel respond?

Israeli officials condemned the move. They argue it rewards terrorism and reduces leverage. Supporters of recognition dispute that view.

Q5: What happens next at the UN?

More states may weigh recognition or related measures. Debates will focus on ceasefire terms, aid access, and a political track. Outcomes will depend on talks and conditions on the ground.

Sources

Reuters; Associated Press; BBC News; ABC News (Australia); The Guardian; Al Jazeera (news live updates and background)