Palestine News / Palestine has been recognized as an independent country by three countries, including Britain

Palestine News: Britain announced its recognition of Palestine as an independent country on Sunday. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed the decision, saying it was taken to promote peace in the Middle East and a two-state solution. Starmer clarified that this decision was not a victory for Hamas and that Hamas would not be given any role in the future Palestinian government. He also added that for a peaceful future, Hamas must release all hostages and Israel must lift the restrictions imposed on Gaza.

Canada and Australia's Support

Just hours before Britain's announcement, Canada and Australia also recognized Palestine as an independent country, becoming the first G7 country to do so. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed hope that this step would ensure a peaceful future for both Israel and Palestine. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described it as a collective step taken with Britain and Canada, aimed at implementing a two-state solution.

The Role of France and the United Nations

On September 13, France introduced a resolution at the United Nations supporting a peaceful solution to the Palestinian issue and a two-state solution. The resolution was supported by 142 countries, including India and China, while the United States, Israel, Argentina, and seven others opposed it. France may soon announce its recognition of Palestine as an independent state. Currently, 147 of the 193 UN member states have recognized Palestine.

Israel's Opposition

The Israeli Foreign Ministry described the recognition as a "reward" to Hamas and claimed that Hamas was receiving support from organizations like the Muslim Brotherhood in Britain. However, Starmer rejected this claim, saying the move was necessary for lasting peace in the region.

Britain's Decision: Timing and Reasons

Britain made the announcement on Sunday because the Jewish festival of Rosh Hashanah begins on Monday evening. Making the announcement during this time could have been offensive to some. Furthermore, Starmer is not attending the UN General Assembly this week, so he felt it appropriate to make this important announcement himself.

Recognition alone is not enough

The Muslim Council of Britain welcomed the move, but stressed that recognition must be accompanied by concrete action. France, Australia, and Canada also supported the move to increase pressure on Israel at the UN conference. This international effort is seen as an important step towards peace in the Middle East and the implementation of a two-state solution.