Portugal Formally Recognizes Palestine Amid Gaza War

DID Press: Portugal has announced that, beginning Sunday, it will officially recognize the State of Palestine — a move seen as a turning point in Western policy toward the Gaza war and Palestinian resistance ahead of the United Nations General Assembly. Analysts say the decision will increase diplomatic pressure on Israel and its allies.

In a statement, the Portuguese Foreign Ministry confirmed that the country will recognize Palestine as an independent state starting tomorrow. The announcement coincides with large demonstrations across Portugal calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

With this decision, Portugal joins a growing number of Western nations shifting their policies in response to the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and repeated violations of Palestinian rights. Reports indicate that Canada and Australia are also reviewing similar measures, while Belgium, France, and the United Kingdom are expected to formally recognize Palestine during the 80th session of the UN General Assembly.

French President Emmanuel Macron earlier declared that France would extend recognition of Palestine as part of its “historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East.” In Britain, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has also warned that London could take the same step if the humanitarian crisis in Gaza persists.

According to UN figures, nearly three-quarters of the organization’s 193 member states have already recognized Palestine. The decision comes as the Gaza war enters its third year and the UN Commission of Inquiry accuses Israel of committing genocide, stating that four of the five legal criteria for genocide have been met in Gaza.

Despite Israel’s condemnations, Portugal’s move — alongside similar steps under consideration by other nations — sends a clear message: the international community is more prepared than ever to stand with the Palestinian people and affirm their historic right to an independent state.