In a significant diplomatic shift, several countries have recently announced formal recognition of the State of Palestine, ahead of the United Nations General Assembly’s anticipated vote on Palestinian statehood. These moves mark a notable change in international alignment and signal growing global support for a two-state solution.
The five countries that most recently recognized Palestine are:
- United Kingdom – Recognized Palestine in September 2025, citing support for peace efforts and a two-state solution. The UK’s decision came alongside coordinated announcements from other Western nations.
- France – France became the first G7 country to formally recognize Palestine, emphasizing diplomacy, human rights, and the urgent need to address humanitarian crises.
- Portugal – Announced recognition alongside the UK, highlighting its commitment to peace and alignment with broader European foreign policy goals.
- Belgium – Recognition occurred during high-level diplomatic summits, reflecting Belgium’s support for Palestinian statehood and European consensus-building.
- Australia – Formal recognition was declared in September 2025, signaling Australia’s evolving foreign policy and support for international law and peace in the region.
The recognition by these nations adds to a growing list of countries now formally acknowledging Palestine, with approximately 159 of 193 UN member states recognizing its statehood. Analysts say the wave of recognition underscores mounting global concern over the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the urgency for a negotiated peace.
Experts suggest that these diplomatic moves could have significant implications for Israel-Palestine relations, international aid, and the upcoming UN General Assembly vote. While some countries continue to refrain from formal recognition, this recent surge indicates a shift in global consensus toward supporting Palestinian sovereignty.
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