A major diplomatic move by a European nation is set to impact the upcoming UN General Assembly, where the future of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict will be discussed. Portugal has announced its decision to recognize Palestine as an independent state, a move that will likely complicate the agenda for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This announcement comes before a critical UN meeting in New York on September 22nd, which will center on the two-state solution. Portugal’s declaration, scheduled for September 21st, represents a significant shift in the region’s political landscape. The Portuguese Foreign Ministry confirmed this stance in a recent statement, emphasizing that it considered the move essential given the deteriorating conditions, ongoing humanitarian crises, and Israeli threats.
This decision is part of a larger trend, with several other European and Western countries considering similar actions. Israel has vehemently opposed these moves, claiming they incentivize Hamas, which initiated the Gaza conflict in October 2023. Israel argues that recognizing Palestine would embolden terrorism and destabilize the peace process.
Among the nations potentially joining Portugal in recognizing Palestine are Andorra, Australia, Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, and San Marino, according to information. Key Western powers such as Britain, Canada, and France could also make announcements about Palestinian recognition during the upcoming General Assembly. Currently, around three-quarters of the 193 UN member states already recognize Palestine.
The upcoming UN General Assembly meeting will focus on the two-state solution, with a conference organized by France and Saudi Arabia to aid the Palestinian Authority in addressing its economic difficulties. This conference will include Norway and Spain. Israel has blocked the transfer of millions of dollars in tax revenue to the PA for several months, exacerbating its financial issues.