The United Kingdom and Australia have officially recognized Palestine as a sovereign and independent state. Following Canada, the decision by the United Kingdom and Australia to recognize the occupied state is being appreciated globally.
According to details, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated, “It is time to recognize the self-determination of the Palestinian people, while also ensuring Israel’s security.” Albanese referred to the commitments made by the Palestinian Authority (PA), which include a non-military state, holding general elections, and refusal of Hamas’ inclusion.
The announcement was made through a press conference at Australia’s Parliament House, where Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasized that “77 years have passed since the world promised a Palestinian state. Now the wait is over.” Australia, which was the first country to support the United Nations Resolution 181 in 1947 – that proposed the creation of both Israel and Palestine – is now completing its historic position by recognizing Palestine.
Along with Canada and Australia, the United Kingdom has also decided to recognize Palestine as a state. After Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom have today formally recognized occupied Palestine as a state.
In July, the United Kingdom had given an ultimatum to Israel, stating that if Israel did not take steps to end the ongoing crisis in Gaza, then in September the United Kingdom would recognize Palestine as a state.
In his statement released on the social media platform X, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that in order to keep alive the hope of peace and a two-state solution for Palestinians and Israelis, the United Kingdom is formally recognizing Palestine as a state.
Today, to revive the hope of peace for the Palestinians and Israelis, and a two state solution, the United Kingdom formally recognises the State of Palestine. pic.twitter.com/yrg6Lywc1s
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) September 21, 2025
The British Prime Minister also said that Hamas should have no role in the governance and security of Palestine. It is worth noting that several Western countries have previously recognized Palestine as a state.
This step came after recent announcements from France, the United Kingdom, and other European countries, as a result of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and strong condemnation of Israeli military operations.
Israel responded immediately, where Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that “this decision is like rewarding terrorism.” The U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration also declared Australia’s policy as “irresponsible,” although resentment against Israel is increasing in allied countries like Europe and Australia. Australian officials say this recognition will further increase global pressure towards a ceasefire in Gaza, release of hostages, and the two-state solution.
Amid this diplomatic development, the situation in Gaza is becoming increasingly dire. According to the latest figures from the Gaza Health Ministry (GHM), as of 17 September 2025, the number of Palestinians martyred in Israeli attacks has reached 66,054. These figures are only from direct attacks, while according to a study by The Lancet journal, if indirect deaths (such as famine, diseases, and malnutrition) are included, the number could exceed 70,000.
Almost half of them (around 33,000) are women and children, while 30.8% (18,592) are under 18 years of age. In the recent attacks on Gaza City, more than 91 Palestinians have been martyred, including journalists, aid workers, and ordinary civilians attempting to flee. According to the United Nations, 217 journalists, 120 teachers, and 224 aid workers (including 179 UNRWA employees) have also been martyred. The Israeli military claims these deaths are the result of operations against “terrorists,” but human rights organizations say that 83% are civilians.
