Portugal Joins Growing List of Nations Recognizing Palestinian State

Sun Oct 12 2025 02:10:07 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a significant foreign policy shift, Portugal announces its intention to officially recognize Palestine as a state, coinciding with ongoing conflicts in Gaza and global diplomatic discussions.

Portugal has confirmed its decision to recognize a Palestinian state, a move that aligns with upcoming announcements expected from France, the UK, Canada, and Australia. This decision comes amidst escalating tensions in the region following a recent conflict, which has drawn criticism from Israeli officials and their allies. The announcement precedes the United Nations General Assembly where discussions on the recognition will likely take center stage.

Portugal says it will recognise a Palestinian state on Sunday, marking a significant shift in its foreign policy as the conflict in the Gaza Strip continues without resolution.

The announcement was made by the country's foreign ministry just ahead of the upcoming United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, where international leaders are expected to discuss similar policies.

France, the UK, Canada, and Australia are reportedly preparing to follow suit, setting a potentially transformative trend among Western nations.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned Portugal's decision, arguing it rewards terror in light of Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.

The U.S., traditionally Israel's closest ally, has echoed these sentiments, with President Donald Trump publicly voicing disapproval during a recent state visit to the UK.

Approximately three-quarters of the 193 members of the UN already recognize Palestine as a state, a status granted administrative observer rights in 2012.

As leaders prepare for the upcoming UN assembly, Israeli military operations continue in Gaza, contributing to escalating humanitarian crises amid ongoing military offensives.

Since the onset of the conflict, reports indicate that more than 65,000 casualties have occurred in Gaza, highlighting the urgent need for diplomatic resolutions to the ongoing tensions.