A significant political development is unfolding in the lead-up to a critical United Nations General Assembly meeting concerning the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. A European country, Portugal, has announced its intention to formally recognize Palestine as an independent state, dealing a blow to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This announcement precedes the UN meeting in New York on September 22, which is set to focus on the two-state solution.
Portugal’s decision, slated for implementation on September 21, follows concerns regarding the deteriorating situation, humanitarian crises, and Israeli actions, as stated by the Foreign Ministry. The move is expected to be followed by other European and Western nations. Israel has voiced its strong opposition to these actions, claiming it would be an endorsement of Hamas, which initiated the Gaza war in October 2023. Israel argues this would encourage terrorism and hinder peace efforts.
Other countries, including Andorra, Australia, Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, and San Marino, are also considering recognizing Palestine. The General Assembly may also see announcements from major Western nations like Britain, Canada, and France. Currently, around three-quarters of the UN’s 193 member states already recognize Palestine.
The upcoming General Assembly will address the two-state solution, and France and Saudi Arabia will host an international conference. Norway and Spain will participate in the conference, aimed at assisting the Palestinian Authority (PA) in overcoming financial difficulties. Israel has withheld millions of dollars in tax revenues from the PA for the past four months, exacerbating its financial problems.