Malta to recognize Palestine as independent State at UN; Raising Israel’s Tensions

Malta’s Prime Minister, Robert Abela, had planned to recognize Palestine in May. This Mediterranean European country has a history of support for the Palestinian cause.

Malta: Following Britain, Canada, and Australia, Malta will now announce its recognition of Palestine as an independent and sovereign state at the UN General Assembly. The Maltese Prime Minister's Office announced this significant move. Malta's joining this list further strengthens international support for Palestine. This move has increased Israel's concern and tension.

Malta's Support and Assistance for Gaza

Malta's Prime Minister, Robert Abela, had planned to recognize Palestine in May. This Mediterranean European country has a history of support for the Palestinian cause. Malta has supported efforts for a two-state solution while maintaining diplomatic relations with Israel. The sensitivity of the Palestinian issue is understood in Malta's political and social context.

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Late Sunday night, Malta sent a shipment of flour to the Gaza Strip, a significant aid ahead of the announcement of recognition. Prime Minister Abela, referring to this assistance in a Facebook post, said that recognizing Palestine would be a historic step and that Malta is committed to establishing peace in the region.

UK, Canada, and Australia Also Announced Recognition

A day before Malta's decision, Canada, Australia, and the UK also announced their recognition of Palestine as an independent state. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer clarified his intentions in a video post. However, Israel has strongly opposed this move.

Israeli Prime Minister's Strong Message

Since the Hamas massacre on October 7, 2023, Israel considers unilateral recognition of Palestine a "reward to terrorism." Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that he would issue a strong response on this issue after returning from the United States. He warned the leaders of the three countries that recognizing a Palestinian state is tantamount to encouraging terrorism. Netanyahu clarified that no Palestinian state will be established west of the Jordan River.

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Malta's move is being seen as a major step towards international recognition of Palestine. Following the UK, Canada, and Australia, Malta's participation could further complicate regional politics. Israel's strong reaction makes it clear that tensions in global politics regarding Palestine are unlikely to subside. Meanwhile, this resolution in the UN General Assembly could prove to be a turning point for peace and stability in the region.