Recognition of Palestine
The recent decision by Britain, France, Australia, and Canada to formally recognize the State of Palestine marks a certain turning point in the approach of the major western powers towards Palestinian issue. So far, the western governments have only spoken of a two-state solution while conniving with Israel in extending its occupation and expand its settlement in the territory. And over the last two years, the west has largely been a mute spectator as Gaza was reduced to rubble and continues to be bombed by Israel. Against this bleak reality, recognition matters.
The move does not change the facts on the ground. It will not halt Israel’s assault in Gaza, nor reverse the relentless expansion of settlements in the West Bank. But its political weight is undeniable. Britain and France are founding members of the postwar international order, while Australia and Canada are central to the Western alliance. Their recognition signals that the old consensus on an uncritical support for Israel and silence on Palestinian rights is beginning to crack.
Israel’s angry reaction was predictable. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denounced the decision as “national suicide,” framing it as a reward for Hamas. Yet his fury betrays a deeper fear: that Israel’s once-unchallenged legitimacy in Western capitals is eroding. The United States has stopped short of recognition, but even Washington has avoided rebuking its allies. That restraint reflects a shifting reality: America can no longer singlehandedly dictate the world’s stance on Palestine.
Still, recognition alone is not enough. Unless the powerful west is able to take concrete measures such as economic pressure, arms restrictions, this breakthrough will be little more than symbolic. The truth is that Israel remains fully in control of the land.
Even so, this moment matters. It signals that the moral sanctity shielding Israel for decades in Western discourse is beginning to erode. It places the two-state solution, long dismissed as dead, back on the table. And it offers Palestinians something that has been in short supply: hope. Recognition does not end the conflict, but it reopens the door to peace.
