Turning Point in History: Five major European countries Recognizes Palestinian State
In a historic wave of diplomatic momentum, several Western nations have formally recognized the State of Palestine, marking a seismic shift in international politics and reigniting hopes for peace in the Middle East. This events unfolded during the UN General Assembly which is taking place between 9 to 28 September 2025.
The announcement by French President Emmanuel Macron at the United Nations General Assembly, joining the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Portugal, and over 140 other nations, signals a growing consensus that the time for symbolic gestures has passed. The world is now demanding tangible steps toward justice, sovereignty, and peace.
France Joins the Chorus“We can no longer wait,” Macron declared, as he announced France’s formal recognition of Palestine. His statement, delivered at a UN meeting, was not just a diplomatic gesture, it was a call to action. Macron emphasized that recognition is a necessary step to break the spiral of violence and secure peace. He also called for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas and an immediate end to the war in Gaza.This move comes amid mounting international outrage over Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza, which has reportedly claimed over 65,000 Palestinian lives, according to Gaza’s health ministry.
The campaign was launched in response to Hamas’ October 2023 attack on southern Israel, which killed approximately 1,200 people and resulted in 251 hostages.
A Flag Raised in London. Less than 24 hours after the UK’s recognition on 31 September 2025, the Palestinian diplomatic mission in London erupted in celebration. The Palestinian flag was raised above the building, the national anthem echoed through the streets, and Ambassador Husam Zomlot unveiled a sign reading “Embassy of the State of Palestine.” Zomlot declared, “The mistakes of the past are now being rectified. After a century of denial, the British government is taking the step of recognising the State of Palestine.”The symbolic power of this moment was not lost on the public.
Abbas Speaks, Despite Visa Denial, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, denied visa access to attend the UN meeting in New York, addressed the assembly remotely. His message was clear and resolute: a permanent ceasefire, unrestricted humanitarian aid through the UN and UNRWA, and the immediate reconstruction of Gaza and the West Bank.Abbas outlined a post-war vision for Palestine: Hamas will have no role in governing Gaza, and the group must surrender its weapons to the Palestinian Authority. “What we want is one unified state without weapons,” he said. Within three months of the war’s end, an interim constitution will be drafted to ensure a peaceful transfer of power, followed by internationally observed elections. Abbas emphasized his commitment to a state governed by the rule of law.He also commended the 149 nations that have already recognized Palestine and urged others to follow suit.
In a surprising note of diplomacy, Abbas expressed his willingness to work with US President Donald Trump, Saudi Arabia, and other partners to implement any peace plan adopted during the UN conference.
The US Stance and Israeli Opposition. Despite the growing tide of recognition, the United States remains firmly opposed to Palestinian statehood. President Donald Trump is expected to reiterate this position during his address to the UN General Assembly. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has condemned the recognitions, calling them “a huge reward to terrorism” and vowing that “there will be no Palestinian state.”This stark divide underscores the complexity of the path ahead. While many nations are embracing recognition as a tool for peace, others see it as a threat to security and stability.
A Global Shift in Consciousness
The recognition of Palestine by major Western powers is more than a diplomatic maneuver—it’s a moral reckoning. It reflects a growing awareness that peace cannot be achieved without justice, and that the Palestinian people deserve the dignity of statehood, sovereignty, and self-determination.
As the Palestinian flag flies over London and the voices of leaders echo through the halls of the UN, the world watches. The question now is not whether Palestine should be recognized. but whether the international community will act swiftly and decisively to turn recognition into reality.
Berinyuy Cajetan is the founder and publisher of Human Rights and Legal Research Centre (HRLRC) since 2017. He has intensive experience in strategic communications for Civil Society Organizations, campaign and advocacy, and social issues. He has an intensive experiencing in human rights monitoring, documentation and reporting.
