The New York Times, August 2024
As famine looms in Gaza, the nations of France, Britain and Canada have declared their intent to recognize a Palestinian state. The immediate response from Israel and the United States was alarm. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel labeled such action a “reward” for Hamas, which was responsible for the killing of about 1,200 people in Israel in its Oct. 7, 2023, attack. American officials condemned the planned recognition.
Nevertheless, a new wave of recognition would represent a clear affirmation of Palestinian political independence and territorial integrity — no small matter after decades of diplomatic ambiguity and Israel’s longstanding violation of the Palestinians’ right to self-determination. Given that sovereignty is the currency of international law, the move could provide advocates for Palestinian rights more leverage for pushing their governments to comply with international law regarding Israel.
Already, 147 countries recognize the state of Palestine. The addition of these three Western powers — key Israeli allies — would be a major step, and leave the United States more isolated as a major supporter of Israel.
