By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Portugal is considering recognizing the State of Palestine at the United Nations, with a decision potentially being made during the UN General Assembly in September. This follows “multiple contacts” with international partners and is prompted by the escalating humanitarian crisis and concerns of annexation of Palestinian territories. The Portuguese government’s decision aligns with similar considerations from France, the United Kingdom, and Canada, all of which have expressed intentions to diplomatically recognize a Palestinian state amidst growing international concern. The move also comes as a result of a “worst-case famine scenario” being reported in Gaza.
Read the original article here
Portugal ‘considering’ recognition of Palestinian state in September, a development that has the potential to reshape the political landscape, particularly in the Middle East. The fact that Portugal is even contemplating this move puts it in a significant position. It’s important to remember that “considering” can be a lengthy process. Any actual steps taken might take some time, even though the possibility is there.
If Portugal does indeed follow through with recognition in September, they would join a growing list of nations. Currently, countries such as France, Malta, the UK, Canada, and San Marino are on the list, and these actions are being taken by Portugal as well as many other nations.
Since the start of 2024, we’ve seen a wave of recognition from countries including Mexico, Spain, Ireland, Norway, Armenia, Slovenia, The Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, and Barbados. This shows a clear and growing momentum in global support for Palestinian statehood.
Currently, a vast majority of UN member states, 147 out of 193, recognize Palestine as a state. That’s over 75% of the world’s nations acknowledging Palestine’s existence. The US remains the lone holdout, blocking Palestine’s UN membership through its veto power. The fact that the US is calling for a ceasefire and the release of hostages while simultaneously hindering Palestinian statehood is an interesting paradox.
Whether Palestine should become a state should be based on its capacity for independent and autonomous governance. There is a valid point that the current state of the Palestinian Authority isn’t necessarily a shining example of readiness.
These moves toward recognition are, for some, about punishing Israel. And there’s a sentiment that the focus should be on alleviating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The question of why these countries are potentially waiting until September for recognition is worth exploring. Some suspect that these moves won’t necessarily have a positive impact. Concerns are raised about the possibility of Hamas gaining further influence or even a seat at the UN.
It’s also understandable to want to see a firm stance from leaders on the ongoing hostage situation in Gaza. They should give more attention to the hostages and the situation overall.
The idea of offering recognition to a Palestinian state is viewed by some as a step toward ending violence and supporting ethnic cleansing. International pressure on Israel is perceived by many to be a positive thing.
When looking ahead, key questions emerge: What are the conditions for recognition? What borders are being recognized? Does Palestine want a two-state solution? Who exactly is the current leadership in Palestine?
The nature of this “Palestinian state” that’s being recognized is a valid point of confusion. Is this recognition of the West Bank or Hamas-controlled Gaza? The symbolism of recognition versus the current reality on the ground creates a complex issue.
There’s also a suggestion that recognizing Palestine is about addressing the conflict instead of simply waiting for one side to be destroyed.
A critical question arises: How can the Palestinians develop governing skills if they’re denied the chance to govern?
The PLO government in the West Bank is considered a de facto state, regardless of recognition. It’s the lack of recognition from certain key players like the US that matters.
It’s worth noting that recognizing Palestine as a state might not directly impact cease-fire efforts or hostage releases.
The UK’s actions in providing medical treatment to Palestinian children are positive steps.
Some believe that countries might announce recognition with a series of unachievable conditions attached. There’s a possibility that the September timeline is a way to create momentum. The political reality is that leaders must consider their domestic audiences.
Recognition of Palestine is conditional on several factors, including the release of hostages. Leaders have emphasized that Hamas will not be part of the government.
It’s important to note that many countries already recognize Palestine as a state. There are considerations being made to the current government in Israel.
The discussion of Israel’s borders is an interesting one. If Israel doesn’t have clearly defined borders, does that mean the recognition of its statehood should also be questioned? The likely answer would be a return to the 1949 borders or a minor adjustment.
Both Palestine and Israel have a current government and leadership that are being recognized. The President of Palestine is Mahmoud Abbas, and the current Prime Minister is Mohammad Mustafa.
The political positions of governments are being considered as well. Portugal is a center-right government. The factor that determines recognition is how closely connected a country is to the US.