On Friday, Finland announced its participation in the French-Saudi New York declaration, which advocates for a peaceful solution to the Palestinian issue and supports a two-state resolution.
This month, Britain, France, Canada, Australia, and Belgium are set to recognize a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly. However, the UK might pause this recognition if Israel reduces the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and engages in a long-term peace strategy.
These actions aim to pressure Israel to cease its operations in Gaza and stop expanding Jewish settlements in the West Bank. Yet, some question the symbolic nature of such recognition.
“We believe this will initiate a sprint, not just a march, toward the two-state solution. We anticipate a proactive, impactful role from the United Kingdom,” stated Husam Zomlot, head of the Palestinian Mission in London, to Reuters.
Facing international criticism for its actions in the Gaza conflict, Israel has condemned these recognition efforts, asserting they could benefit Hamas. On October 7, 2023, Hamas militants attacked Israeli communities near the border, resulting in around 1,200 civilian deaths and 251 hostages taken into Gaza, as per Israeli reports.
More details to come
