Govt: Western countries’ recognition of Palestine a significant development in pursuit of peace

The Government of Maldives, on Monday, welcomed the announcement by several western countries formally recognizing the State of Palestine.

The United Kingdom (UK), Canada and Australia formally recognized the State of Palestine on Sunday, joining a growing number of western nations that have moved in recent months to back Palestinian statehood as the war in Gaza grinds on.

The Government of Maldives, via a statement on Monday, welcomed the decision by the UK, Canada and Australia, citing it as a significant development in the pursuit of peace and stability in the region.

The Government further said the decision underscores growing international consensus on the urgency of achieving peace, security and dignity for the people of Palestine. 

The Government called on all nations that have yet to do so to support the Palestinian people on their legitimate pursuit of an independent and sovereign State of Palestine.

Since declaring independence on November 15, 1988, Palestine has gained recognition from 147 of the United Nations' 193 member states.

With anticipated announcements during this year’s UN General Assembly, that number is expected to increase to 157.

Following its intensified land seizures in the occupied West Bank after October 7, 2023, Israel has issued warnings that it may respond with annexation as a means to discourage further recognition of Palestine.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the potential recognition of a Palestinian state by the UK, Canada, and Australia, calling it a “huge reward for terrorism.”