In a coordinated diplomatic move ahead of this week’s United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada on Sunday formally recognised the State of Palestine, marking one of the most significant Western policy shifts on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in decades.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the UK’s decision on X, saying it aimed to “revive the hope of peace” and advance the two-state solution.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney issued a detailed statement, affirming Canada’s recognition of Palestine and strongly criticising Israel’s settlement expansion and military actions in Gaza, calling them violations of international law. “It is in this context that Canada recognises the State of Palestine and offers our partnership in building the promise of a peaceful future,” Carney said.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong also declared recognition, underscoring Australia’s commitment to a two-state solution while stressing that Hamas must have no role in Palestine. They noted that the Palestinian Authority had pledged reforms, including democratic elections and recognition of Israel’s right to exist.

The Palestinian government welcomed the announcement, describing it as a courageous decision aligned with international law and UN resolutions.

The recognition by these three influential Western nations adds momentum to the global push for Palestinian statehood and is expected to increase diplomatic pressure on the United States and European Union members to revisit their positions as the UNGA session convenes in New York.