Canada and Australia Join UK in Recognising Palestinian Statehood

Canada and Australia Join UK in Recognising Palestinian Statehood

Coordinated move comes ahead of the UN General Assembly, as global support for a two-state solution gains momentum. By Kamal Yalwa | Published September 21, 2025 Canada and Australia have officially recognised the State of Palestine, joining the United Kingdom in a coordinated diplomatic move aimed at reviving efforts toward a two-state solution in the Middle East. The announcement comes just days ahead of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, as international pressure mounts over Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza and continued settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank. In a formal statement, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney declared Canada’s recognition of Palestinian statehood, stating: “Canada recognises the State of Palestine and offers our partnership in building the promise of a peaceful future for both the State of Palestine and the State of Israel.” Carney also condemned the Israeli government’s ongoing actions, accusing it of working “methodically to prevent the prospect of a Palestinian state from ever being established.” He clarified that this recognition supports peaceful coexistence and strengthens moderate voices within the Palestinian Authority, not extremist factions: “This in no way legitimises terrorism, nor is it any reward for it. Recognising Palestine empowers those seeking peace and the end of Hamas.” Carney also revealed that the Palestinian Authority had made direct commitments to Canada, including pledges to reform its governance, hold democratic elections next year—excluding Hamas—and begin demilitarisation efforts. Australia Echoes Canada’s Move Shortly after Canada’s announcement, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also confirmed his country’s formal recognition of Palestine. In a joint statement with Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Albanese said the decision was made in coordination with Canada and the UK. The statement called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages, while stressing that Hamas “must have no role in Palestine’s future.” UK Adds Diplomatic Weight UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who had already signalled support for Palestinian statehood earlier this year, formally confirmed Britain’s recognition following the announcements from Ottawa and Canberra. “This move revives hope for peace for both Palestinians and Israelis, and reaffirms our commitment to a two-state solution,” Starmer said. Growing Global Shift The coordinated move from Canada, Australia, and the UK—three longstanding allies of Israel—marks a significant shift in the international approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The recognition follows months of escalating violence in Gaza, where over 65,200 Palestinians have been killed according to local health authorities. Israel has faced increasing international isolation, with mounting criticism from both governments and civil society groups. At a protest in Toronto on September 20, thousands marched against Prime Minister Carney’s domestic policies and in support of Palestinian rights, reflecting the growing public pressure shaping foreign policy in Western democracies. Meanwhile, Israel and the United States have warned that recognising Palestinian statehood amid ongoing conflict “rewards terrorism,” arguing it legitimises Hamas. Israeli opposition leader Benny Gantz criticised the announcements, claiming they embolden Hamas and undermine hostage negotiations: “If you truly want peace in the Middle East, Western leaders must focus on applying pressure on Hamas—not legitimising them through premature recognition,” Gantz posted on social media. Recognition Gains but UN Status Still Stalled So far, 147 of 193 UN member states have recognised the State of Palestine. However, this symbolic recognition does not translate into full UN membership, which requires approval from the Security Council—a move currently blocked by the United States’ veto power. Still, momentum is building. France and several other nations are expected to follow suit during the UN General Assembly. Some Western countries have also begun imposing sanctions on Israel or threatening diplomatic boycotts. Notably, nations like Spain, Ireland, and the Netherlands have pledged to withdraw from the Eurovision Song Contest if Israel participates next year. Even Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently acknowledged the shifting global stance, admitting that Israel is experiencing a form of international isolation and will need to adapt its economy accordingly.

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Arsenal vs Man City: Arteta Faces Midfield Dilemma Involving Declan Rice and Mikel Merino

Watch Arsenal vs Man City live Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has a tough decision to make ahead of Sunday’s crucial Premier League clash with Manchester City, as he grapples with a growing concern in midfield involving Declan Rice and Mikel Merino. The Gunners secured a 2-0 win over Athletic Club in Bilbao earlier this week, with substitutes Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard making the difference off the bench — a testament to Arsenal’s increasing squad depth and attacking firepower. But the key question remains: why were they needed at all? Midfield Lacking Creativity Despite controlling large portions of the match and facing minimal pressure from the hosts — Athletic registered 11 shots, only two of which troubled David Raya — Arsenal struggled to create meaningful opportunities for much of the game. Much of that came down to their midfield setup. As seen in previous fixtures, Arteta once again paired Declan Rice and Mikel Merino as advanced No. 8s, ahead of Martin Zubimendi in the holding role. It’s a combination that has yet to fully click. Just like in last month’s draw against Liverpool, the Rice–Merino axis appeared too rigid, limiting Arsenal’s attacking fluidity and link-up play in the final third. Neither player naturally fills the creative void left when Martin Ødegaard is absent or deeper in midfield. Stats Paint a Cautionary Picture The numbers don’t lie:In the Premier League, Arsenal have started Rice and Merino together as No. 8s nine times.They’ve won just one of those matches — a 4-0 win over a struggling Ipswich Town side. Even that victory came under low pressure, with Champions League progression already secured. What It Means Ahead of City Showdown With Manchester City arriving at the Emirates this weekend, Arteta must weigh his midfield options carefully. The defending champions are ruthless at punishing sides that lack midfield cohesion — and if Arsenal struggle to transition quickly from defence to attack, it could prove costly. Arteta’s squad has improved in terms of depth and versatility, but his midfield combinations — especially in high-stakes games — remain under the microscope. The manager must now decide whether to persist with the Rice–Merino pairing or bring in a more attack-minded midfielder to balance out the structure and provide the creative spark that could tip the scales in Arsenal’s favour.

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Late Rev. Akindayomi’s Daughter

My Father’s Legacy Must Not Die — Late Rev. Akindayomi’s Daughter Speaks Out on YouTube

In a heartfelt video shared on YouTube, Pastor Titi, daughter of the late Rev. Josiah Akindayomi — the revered founder of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) — has opened up about her father’s life, legacy, and how his memory is being preserved today. “Some pastors don’t even know my father founded the church,” she said candidly in the video. “He never gave my mother a position in the church. In fact, he cared for outsiders even more than his own children.” Pastor Titi went on to reveal that her father made no material provisions for his children, choosing instead to leave each of them with only a Bible. “That was his will,” she said. “He promised to bequeath Bibles to his children, and that’s exactly what he did. How many pastors today can do that?” Now determined to preserve his legacy, she announced the launch of a foundation in his name, aimed at promoting the values he lived by — humility, selflessness, and a deep commitment to the Gospel. “His legacy must not die,” she declared. “That’s why I started the foundation — to remind the world of who he was and what he stood for.” Food for Thought Her comments have sparked fresh conversations online about church leadership, succession planning, and legacy within Nigeria’s Christian community. Questions being raised include: As discussions continue to unfold, Pastor Titi’s bold reflections serve as a powerful reminder that behind every megachurch are stories of sacrifice, conviction, and legacies that risk being forgotten — unless someone chooses to remember.

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President Tinubu To Oluremi on Her 65th Birthday

President Tinubu To Oluremi on Her 65th Birthday

As you celebrate your 65th birthday today, I honour not only the love of my life, but also a woman whose quiet strength and enduring grace have been my steadying anchor. Through every season, from the long years of struggle and political exile, to leadership responsibilities, you have stood firmly by my side with dignity, patience, and devotion that words can scarcely express. You are more than my wife. You are my confidant, counsellor, and the steady flame illuminating my path. In you, our children and grandchildren see the example of compassion and faith, and in you, our nation sees the true strength of womanhood; resolute yet tender, humble yet unshakably firm. Nigeria owes you more than many will ever know. In every sacrifice you made quietly, in every burden you carried without complaint, you have served this country as surely as I have, not from the podium, but from the heart of our home. Today, as your husband, I thank God for your life, health, and unwavering love. As your President, I salute you as the First Lady whose warmth and empathy continue to touch millions of lives across our land. And as your lifelong companion, I say that I love you more than ever, and am blessed every day by your presence. Your love is a treasure I hold dear. Happy 65th birthday, Oluremi @SenRemiTinubu. May the years ahead be filled with joy, peace, and the fulfilment you so richly deserve.

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UK to Recognize Palestinian State Today

The United Kingdom is expected to formally recognize a Palestinian state later today, British officials said, after Israel failed to meet key conditions laid out by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. These conditions included agreeing to a ceasefire in Gaza, allowing humanitarian aid into the enclave, ending measures toward annexing territory in the West Bank, and recommitting to a two‑state peace process. Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy clarified that recognition would be largely symbolic and would not result in the immediate establishment of a sovereign state. The move is intended to preserve the prospects for a two‑state solution. The decision comes amid growing international pressure on Israel over its military operations in Gaza and concerns about worsening humanitarian conditions. Canada, France, and Portugal are among other Western nations preparing to recognize Palestinian statehood in alignment with the UN General Assembly later this week. Israel has criticized these recognition efforts, arguing that they amount to rewarding terrorism. Families of Israeli hostages have also expressed strong opposition to what they view as diplomatic moves that may undermine efforts to secure the hostages’ release.

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Beijing moves to curb commercialization of faith and reassert Communist Party control over spiritual life

China Bans Online Preaching and AI in Major Crackdown on Digital Religion

Beijing moves to curb commercialization of faith and reassert Communist Party control over spiritual life China has rolled out sweeping new restrictions on religious expression online, banning unlicensed digital preaching and the use of artificial intelligence to produce religious content. The move is part of a broader campaign by the Chinese Communist Party to clamp down on the commercialization of religion and ensure religious activities remain firmly under state control. The crackdown, introduced by the National Religious Affairs Administration, prohibits most forms of online religious engagement unless carried out by state-licensed religious institutions. This includes bans on livestreamed sermons, short religious videos, paid digital rituals such as online chanting or incense offerings, and AI-generated religious teachings. Authorities cited the need to combat the spread of “illegal information,” online fortune-telling, and “heretical cults” as key reasons for the policy. The tightening of online regulations comes amid rapid growth in what some analysts have dubbed China’s “temple economy,” estimated to be worth over $14 billion annually. Religious revival in the country—despite formal restrictions—has led to a boom in temple tourism, e-commerce sales of religious items, and digital spiritual services. While only about 10% of the population formally identifies with a religion, surveys suggest up to 40% of Chinese people believe in deities, spirits, or ghosts. The blending of faith and commerce has sparked criticism that religious practice is becoming overly commodified and detached from its spiritual roots. The timing of the new restrictions follows the public scandal surrounding Shi Yongxin, abbot of the iconic Shaolin Temple, who is currently under investigation for alleged financial misconduct and behavior deemed inconsistent with Buddhist teachings. Known as the “CEO monk” for his high-profile commercial ventures, Shi has been accused of turning the monastery into a profit-making enterprise. Several of his associates have reportedly been detained, and the case has become a flashpoint for debates about the blurred lines between religion, commerce, and state power in modern China. In response to the new measures, local religious bureaus across China have begun implementing compliance campaigns. In Sichuan province, officials have organized study sessions for Buddhist, Catholic, and Islamic leaders to reinforce the new rules. Religious organizations have been told to carry out internal “self-examinations,” and local authorities have pledged to “eliminate risks” posed by unregulated religious activity. Analysts view this as part of a broader ideological tightening under President Xi Jinping, whose administration has already conducted wide-ranging anti-corruption drives across government and the Communist Party. The current focus on religion reflects a desire to prevent religious leaders from accumulating social influence or wealth that might challenge the state’s authority. The new rules will significantly affect temples and clergy that have embraced digital platforms. At Mount Qingcheng, a Taoist sacred site in Sichuan, monks had begun livestreaming services and selling religious merchandise on Douyin (China’s TikTok), with some items priced over $1,400. Such practices have drawn both fascination and criticism on social media, where users mockingly described monks as luxury tourists. While the latest crackdown may curtail these ventures, observers expect some religious groups to find workarounds, noting that similar campaigns in the past have lost momentum after a few months. Ultimately, the latest restrictions highlight Beijing’s intent to keep religion subordinate to the state. According to Ian Johnson, author of The Souls of China, the policy is less about eliminating faith and more about controlling it. “Religion may flourish, temples may profit, and millions may worship,” he said. “But only on terms acceptable to the Communist Party.” As China balances economic development, political stability, and spiritual expression, the message remains clear: religious freedom exists—but only within limits drawn by the state.

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Israeli Bombing Kills Over 90 Palestinians as Gaza City Nears Collapse

Israeli Bombing Kills Over 90 Palestinians as Gaza City Nears Collapse

By Kamal Yalwa Published: September 20, 2025 At least 91 Palestinians have been killed across the Gaza Strip since dawn on Saturday, with Gaza City bearing the brunt of ongoing Israeli airstrikes. Medical sources told Al Jazeera that 76 of the deaths occurred in the city alone, where the Israeli military continues an intense bombing campaign. The densely populated coastal enclave has been under siege for weeks, with Israeli forces attempting to forcibly evacuate Gaza City’s residents. According to Gaza Civil Defence, around 450,000 people—half of the city’s population—have fled since Israel announced plans to capture and occupy the area in August. In one of the deadliest incidents of the day, six people were killed in an Israeli drone strike on the Tuffah neighbourhood. Another attack on the Shati refugee camp in western Gaza City killed at least five people, including two young girls, according to ambulance sources. The Israeli military claims to have demolished up to 20 residential towers in Gaza City over the past two weeks as part of its ongoing operation. The strikes have turned once-crowded neighbourhoods into rubble-strewn wastelands. Al Jazeera correspondent Hind Khoudary, reporting from central Gaza, described scenes of panic and chaos as civilians attempted to flee. She said Israeli quadcopters were targeting evacuees, using explosives that residents likened to “earthquakes” with every detonation. Meanwhile, Hamas on Saturday released what it called a “farewell picture” of 48 Israeli captives still held in Gaza. The group has warned that intensified Israeli attacks could further endanger the hostages’ lives, with several reportedly already killed by Israeli airstrikes. Hamas claims the captives are “scattered throughout the neighbourhoods” of Gaza City, making their rescue increasingly complicated amid ongoing bombardment and military operations. The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate rapidly, as large-scale displacement, crumbling infrastructure, and mounting casualties fuel concerns of an even deeper crisis ahead.

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Man Utd 2-1 Chelsea: Fernandes and Casemiro Ease Pressure on Amorim in Fiery Clash

Man Utd 2-1 Chelsea: Fernandes and Casemiro Ease Pressure on Amorim in Fiery Clash

Saturday, September 20, 2025 Manchester United secured a vital 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Old Trafford to relieve pressure on head coach Ruben Amorim, in a match defined by early drama, two first-half goals, and a red card apiece. United got off to the perfect start in miserable conditions when Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez was sent off inside four minutes. The Spaniard brought down Bryan Mbeumo outside the box after being caught in possession, leaving referee Anthony Taylor with little choice but to brandish a straight red. United capitalised swiftly. Bruno Fernandes opened the scoring with a composed finish following a sharp attacking move. Casemiro then doubled the lead before half-time, heading in from a corner to give the hosts breathing room. However, the Brazilian midfielder went from hero to villain just before the break. A reckless challenge on Chelsea’s Andrey Santos earned Casemiro a second yellow card, reducing both teams to 10 men and swinging momentum back toward the visitors. Chelsea applied more pressure in the second half and eventually pulled a goal back through Trevoh Chalobah. His header set up a nervy final stretch, but United managed to hold firm to secure their first Premier League win in three matches. The result ends Chelsea’s hopes of ending a near 13-year winless run at Old Trafford and offers Amorim a much-needed boost after a difficult start to his tenure. United fans, who have grown anxious over recent form, were given a glimpse of the intensity and control their manager has been promising. With the three points secured, Manchester United now look to build momentum as they head into a busy run of fixtures in both the league and Europe.

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