UK, Canada, Australia Recognize Palestinian State Amid Gaza Conflict, Netanyahu Condemns

The United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia have officially recognized the state of Palestine, marking a significant shift in Western foreign policy and making them the first G7 countries to do so. This recognition was welcomed by Palestinian leaders as a necessary step toward achieving a just and lasting peace and establishing a two-state solution, while also condemning ongoing Israeli settlement activities and calling for a cease-fire and humanitarian aid. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as a driving factor for their decisions, aiming to revive hopes for peace between Palestinians and Israelis. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly condemned the move, calling it a "huge reward to terrorism" and asserting that a Palestinian state will not be established west of the Jordan River. The recognition has sparked criticism online, with commentators labeling it hypocritical due to ongoing support for Israel amid allegations of genocide in Gaza and the holding of Palestinian hostages. The developments come as the international community prepares for further recognitions at the upcoming UN General Assembly, intensifying debates on the future of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.