Plans by France, the UK, and Canada to recognize a Palestinian state won’t bring one about anytime soon due to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s rejection of Palestinian statehood and annexation plans for occupied territories.
Israeli leaders favor the outright annexation of the West Bank, where Israel has built over 100 settlements housing 500,000 Jewish settlers. The conflict in Gaza has reduced the area to a smoldering wasteland and is pushing it toward famine.
The US has taken Israel’s side, leaving Western countries with limited leverage to pressure Israel. Critics argue that these countries could have done more to help the Palestinians, such as suspending trade agreements or imposing arms embargoes.
While recognition of Palestinian statehood may not lead to immediate results, it could strengthen the Palestinians’ negotiating position in the long run and potentially pave the way for a resumption of peace talks. However, Israel’s government is unlikely to change its policy without significant international pressure.
Recognition by major countries, including Britain and France, leaves the US as the only holdout on the UN Security Council. The move could also benefit efforts to prevent annexation and create a more equal footing for Palestinian statehood in future negotiations.
The development has been welcomed by Palestinians but criticized by some, who argue that it doesn’t address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and may be seen as a way for Western countries to appear to be taking action.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/israel-war-palestinian-state-uk-france-canada-83b626eac334ecae9ea9120ea3381f23