On Monday, Portugal officially recognized the state of Palestine, following similar announcements by Britain, Canada, and Australia earlier in the day.
The move increases pressure on Israel to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and highlights growing differences with the Trump administration among major American allies.
Portuguese Foreign Minister Advocates Two-State Solution
Addressing reporters in New York, Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel said:
“Recognizing the State of Palestine is (…) the fulfillment of a fundamental, coherent, and widely accepted policy. Portugal advocates the two-state solution as the only path to a lasting peace, a peace that promotes coexistence and peaceful relations between Israel and Palestine.”
Palestine Welcomes Portugal’s Decision
The Palestinian Foreign Affairs Ministry released a statement praising Portugal’s recognition:
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates welcomes the decision of the Republic of Portugal to recognize the State of Palestine, regarding it as a courageous step consistent with international law and United Nations resolutions, and one that bolsters ongoing efforts to achieve peace and advance the two-state solution.”
The ministry added that it looks forward to strengthening bilateral relations with Portugal and urged other countries to recognize Palestine, calling for international action to protect civilians and launch a genuine political process:
“Such measures are essential to ensuring security, stability, and prosperity for all states and peoples of the region.”
Recognition Comes Ahead of UN General Assembly
The announcement coincides with the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in New York. France has also indicated it will support recognition at the UN this week, joining nearly 150 member states that already recognize Palestinian statehood.
What Recognition of Statehood Means
International law defines statehood based on criteria including:
- A permanent population
- Defined territory
- A functioning government
- Capacity to conduct international relations
Experts say Palestine meets these criteria at a basic level, with governance in parts of the West Bank, representation abroad through the Palestine Liberation Organisation, and a permanent population in its territories.
Zinaida Miller, law professor at Northeastern University, explained:
“It acknowledges the Palestinian right to self-determination and rejects the positions and actions of the Israeli government that undermine that right.”
Recognition by foreign governments does not resolve internal disputes, including Hamas’s control of Gaza, but it establishes diplomatic relations and sends a strong political message supporting Palestinian statehood.
