Portugal is considering recognizing the State of Palestine at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in September, the Portuguese prime minister's office announced on 31/7.
The announcement stated that Portugal's decision is driven by "the extremely worrying developments of the conflict, both from a humanitarian perspective and Israel's continued mention of the possibility of annexing Palestinian territories."
"The Portuguese government carefully considered and consulted with European and international partners before making this decision," Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa said.
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Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro speaks in Brussels, Belgium on 26/6. Photo: AFP |
Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro speaks in Brussels, Belgium on 26/6. Photo: AFP
French President Emmanuel Macron announced on 24/7 that France would recognize the State of Palestine in September, "in line with its historical commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East." UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also announced similar intentions in late July.
The moves by France, the UK, and Canada are noteworthy, marking a shift from the general Western stance of recognizing a Palestinian state only after the parties involved reach an agreement on issues like borders and the status of Jerusalem.
Israel criticized the decisions of France, the UK, and Canada.
Observers note that recognizing the State of Palestine is largely symbolic, as the Israeli military controls most of the territories envisioned for a Palestinian state, including the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem.
However, such actions by Western powers could further isolate Israel internationally. Many countries have exerted diplomatic pressure on Israel to open humanitarian aid access to the Gaza Strip, which is on the brink of a severe famine.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said on 31/7 that the tragedy in Gaza has exceeded imagination. "Israel must quickly send adequate humanitarian and medical aid to Gaza to prevent the risk of mass starvation in the region," Wadephul said after meeting with Israeli officials in Jerusalem.
Nhu Tam (AFP, Reuters)
