Published on, Sept. 22 -- September 22, 2025 12:35 PM

In a landmark shift, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and Portugal have formally recognized Palestine as a sovereign state, joining over 140 nations worldwide. The announcement, made ahead of the UN General Assembly, signals a major political rupture in the Western alliance that has long stood with Israel.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese underscored that recognition hinges on reforms by the Palestinian Authority - including elections in 2026 and the exclusion of Hamas from governance. Portugal echoed similar conditions while reaffirming its support for a two-state solution.

Starmer describe...