Is Recognizing Palestine a Way to Salvage Western Leaders' Image?

Recognition of Palestinian Statehood: A Symbolic Step or a Turning Point?

Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia have taken a significant step by recognizing the statehood of Palestine. This move comes as a symbolic response to Israel’s ongoing military actions in Gaza and its continued expansion into the occupied West Bank. The decision has drawn global attention and is seen as a shift in international relations, especially given that these countries are traditionally close allies of Israel.

In addition to Canada, the UK, and Australia, other nations such as France and Portugal are expected to follow suit in the coming days. This wave of recognition follows recent announcements on Sunday, which have sparked reactions from various stakeholders, including Israeli officials.

Israel's Response

Israel has reacted strongly to these developments. Shosh Bedrosian, a spokesperson for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, called the recognition “absurd” and claimed it was a reward for terrorism. During an event in occupied East Jerusalem on September 15, Netanyahu made a clear statement to his supporters, promising that “there will be no Palestinian state.”

Despite the global attention this move has received, analysts suggest that it is more of a symbolic gesture than a substantial change in the ongoing conflict. Rida Abu Rass, a Palestinian political scientist, emphasized that while recognition is important, it is just one step in a long process. He noted that these countries breaking ranks could lead to greater isolation for Israel, which may have some meaningful impact.

Ongoing Violence and Scepticism

At the same time, the violence continues. On the day of the recognition announcement, at least 55 Palestinians were killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza. Of these, 37 were killed in Gaza City, where the Israeli army has launched another violent campaign. Analysts remain skeptical about whether recognition will improve the material conditions of Palestinians suffering under Israeli aggression.

Since October 2023, Israel has killed at least 65,283 people and wounded 166,575 in its war on Gaza. These figures are believed to be much higher according to many experts. Additionally, in the occupied West Bank, the Israeli military and settler attacks have resulted in over 1,000 deaths, with the Israeli government threatening to annex the entire territory.

Performative Recognition

Some analysts argue that the recognition is performative rather than substantive. Chris Osieck, a freelance researcher, expressed skepticism, stating that without concrete actions like sanctions, arms embargos, or a no-fly zone, the recognition may not make a real difference. Mohamad Elmasry, a professor at the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies, echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that these countries are responding to pressure from both the international community and their own populations.

International Pressure and Diplomatic Steps

The recognition allows these countries to enter into treaties with the Palestinian government and appoint full ambassadors. For example, the UK will recognize Husam Zomlot as the Palestinian ambassador to the UK. Zomlot stated that this recognition marks an end to Britain’s denial of the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination.

Despite the recognition, Palestine is not yet a full member of the United Nations. It remains a non-member observer state, and becoming a full member would require the recommendation of the UN Security Council, which is unlikely due to US veto powers.

Growing International Pressure

International pressure on Israel has intensified, particularly from Europe. Boycott campaigns are gaining momentum, potentially leading to Israel’s exclusion from events like Eurovision and international sporting competitions. The European Union has also discussed increasing tariffs on certain Israeli goods and applying sanctions to some Israeli leaders.

Analysts believe that while recognition itself may not directly affect Israel’s actions in Gaza, it could signal a willingness to take real measures, such as arms embargos, which could have a direct impact on Israel’s military operations.

Leaders "Saving Face"

Some Western states are taking these steps as a way to respond to domestic pressures. Rida Abu Rass suggested that these actions are a low-cost way to satisfy constituents’ demands. He noted that even though nothing has fundamentally changed, there is a growing liberal disaffection that is pushing these governments to act.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese have both made their recognition conditional, emphasizing the need for further progress from the Palestinian Authority before establishing diplomatic relations.

Historical Context and Responsibility

The recognition also carries historical weight, especially for the United Kingdom. The Balfour Declaration, signed 108 years ago, declared support for a “national home for the Jewish people” in Palestine. As a historical ally of Israel, the UK’s recognition is seen as a step toward acknowledging its role in the displacement of Palestinians.

Despite this, analysts remain cautious. Even if all countries recognize Palestine, little will change unless the Israeli occupation is dismantled. Abu Rass stressed that international pressure must go beyond mere recognition and include sanctions, cutting diplomatic ties, prosecuting war criminals, and implementing cultural boycotts.