Portugal has officially recognized the State of Palestine, with the declaration set to be made on Sunday, September 21, 2025. This move positions Portugal among a growing number of Western nations, including France, Canada, and the United Kingdom, that are extending formal recognition to Palestine ahead of the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in New York.
The Times of Israel
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The Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the decision in a statement released on Friday, stating that the official recognition would occur prior to a high-level conference on Palestinian statehood scheduled for the following week. Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel had previously indicated that the government was considering this step, citing the “extremely worrying evolution of the conflict” and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as key factors influencing the decision.
Reuters
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This development marks a significant shift in Portugal’s foreign policy. While the country had previously adopted a more cautious approach, seeking alignment with a broader European Union consensus, the escalating violence in Gaza and Israel’s repeated threats to annex Palestinian territories have prompted a reevaluation of its stance. Portugal now joins a select group of European Union member states, including Sweden and Cyprus, that have recognized Palestine as a sovereign state.
Reuters
Palestinian officials have welcomed Portugal’s decision, describing it as a “brave step” that aligns with international law and United Nations resolutions. The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement thanking Portugal and other countries that have announced their intention to recognize the State of Palestine, urging those that have not yet done so to act swiftly to safeguard a two-state solution.
Anadolu Ajansı
The recognition comes amid a backdrop of intensifying conflict in Gaza. Israeli airstrikes have resulted in significant casualties, with at least 14 people killed overnight in Gaza City, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation. The United Nations has described the conditions in Gaza as approaching famine levels, with over 90% of the population displaced and widespread destruction of infrastructure.
AP News
The United Nations General Assembly, scheduled for later this month, is expected to be a focal point for discussions on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Several countries, including Portugal, plan to formally recognize Palestinian statehood during the assembly, signaling a coordinated diplomatic effort to advance the two-state solution.
The Times of Israel
Israel has expressed strong opposition to these moves, arguing that unilateral recognition of Palestinian statehood undermines the prospects for a negotiated peace agreement and rewards Hamas for its actions. The Israeli government maintains that direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority are the only viable path to achieving a lasting peace.
The Times of Israel
As the international community prepares for the upcoming United Nations General Assembly, Portugal’s decision to recognize the State of Palestine underscores the growing momentum behind efforts to address the longstanding Israeli-Palestinian conflict through diplomatic means. The coming weeks are likely to see continued developments as more countries consider their positions on this critical issue.
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