The governments of the United States and the United Kingdom raised the possibility of recognizing a Palestinian state after the current conflict in Gaza. Officials from both countries noted that the move could be crucial to establishing long-term peace and security in the region.
In this sense, during his visit to Lebanon, the British Foreign Secretary, David Cameron mentioned that the recognition of Palestine as a state is important for peace. However, he clarified that this will not be possible as long as Hamas maintains control in Gaza.
On the other hand, sources have indicated that United States Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, has reviewed options for American and international recognition of a Palestinian state. Breaking with previous policy of leaving the issue to negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority.
British proposal
Months ago, David Cameron mentioned the possibility of the United Kingdom officially recognizing a Palestinian state after a cease-fire in Gaza, without waiting for the outcome of possible long-term negotiations on a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians.
In this sense, he noted that recognition cannot happen while Hamas remains in Gaza, but can be considered during Israeli negotiations with Palestinian leaders. Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of providing the Palestinian people with a perspective towards a future with their own state, calling this vital for long-term peace and security in the region.
Cameron detailed that the British proposal includes a plan to reduce tensions on the border between Lebanon and Israel, with the United Kingdom likely to train Lebanese military forces to strengthen security in the border region.
Implications of Palestine Recognition
Although Palestine has been recognized by 139 of the 193 members of the UN, the United States, the United Kingdom and other countries in the G7 have not yet done so. Palestine has been a “non-member observer state” at the UN since 2012 and has acceded to several human rights treaties. However, its full recognition as a sovereign state would have significant legal implications and expand its participation in international organizations.
Recognition of Palestine as a sovereign state presents challenges, such as the need for a “defined territory” and an “effective government”. While the UK maintains a non-recognition position, a change in its stance could open new legal avenues for accountability for human rights violations and atrocities.
Experts say full recognition could also change the dynamics of the current conflict, transforming it from a conflict between a state (Israel) and a non-state group (Hamas) to an international armed conflict. This will have a significant impact, especially within the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court (ICC), where the “situation of the State of Palestine” is already being investigated.
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Source: United Press International
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