Maldives welcomes recognition of Palestine by UK, Canada and Australia

Maldives has welcomed the decision by the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia to formally recognize the State of Palestine, calling it a significant step towards peace and stability in the region.

In a statement, the government said the move reflected growing international consensus on the urgency of ensuring peace, security and dignity for the Palestinian people.

It urged all countries that have yet to do so to back Palestine’s pursuit of an independent and sovereign state.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded angrily, describing recognition of a Palestinian state as a “reward” for Hamas’ attacks on October 7, 2023, and threatening to expand Jewish settlements in the West Bank.

Western countries that recognize Palestine have said they will not accept Hamas participation in governance.

The announcement follows a wave of recognition at the UN General Assembly this month, with ten additional countries backing Palestinian statehood. Among Western nations, the UK, France and Portugal have affirmed recognition.

Next week, the UN General Assembly in New York is expected to focus on advancing a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Of the 193 UN member states, around 75% already recognize the State of Palestine.