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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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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Five Key Takeaways from Trump-Starmer Meeting in the UK Aylesbury, UK – September 18, 2025 — U.S. President Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer presented a united front on major global issues during a joint press conference at Chequers, wrapping up Trump’s three-day visit to the United Kingdom. Despite recent tensions between Washington and European allies, the meeting underscored strong transatlantic ties as the two leaders discussed Ukraine, NATO, Gaza, Afghanistan, and more. 1. Trump Says Putin ‘Let Him Down’ Over Ukraine President Trump expressed frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin over the prolonged war in Ukraine, admitting he underestimated the challenge of resolving the conflict. “I thought it would be easiest because of my relationship with President Putin, but he’s let me down,” Trump said. PM Starmer reiterated the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine, vowing to increase pressure on Russia and push for a lasting peace deal. 2. Divergence on Gaza, But Unity Against Hamas While both leaders condemned Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, they differed on the broader approach to the Gaza conflict. Trump avoided criticizing Israel’s ongoing military campaign, which has killed over 65,000 Palestinians, calling October 7 “one of the worst days in the history of humanity.” Starmer's previous pledge to recognize a Palestinian state was noted as a “point of disagreement,” but Trump praised the UK leader’s strong stance against Hamas. 3. Trump Praises NATO and Increased Defense Spending Once a vocal NATO critic, Trump struck a different tone, applauding the alliance’s commitment to boost defense spending. “I want to thank NATO and our wonderful head of NATO, Mark [Rutte]… They’ve done a great job,” he said, highlighting a new pledge for members to spend 5% of GDP on defense. Trump emphasized U.S. support in supplying weapons to NATO allies, stressing that the alliance was now “paying its fair share.” 4. Bagram Airbase Back in Focus Trump hinted at possible negotiations with the Taliban for the U.S. to regain access to the Bagram airbase in Afghanistan, which was vacated in 2021 during the Biden administration’s withdrawal. “We’re trying to get it back,” Trump said, citing its strategic location near China’s nuclear facilities. The Taliban, however, quickly dismissed the proposal, stating they welcome engagement with the U.S. but will not allow any foreign military presence. 5. Trump Weighs in on Kimmel Firing Trump also addressed the firing of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel by ABC, following political controversy over remarks involving conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. “Jimmy Kimmel was fired because he had bad ratings… He’s not a talented person,” Trump said, dismissing concerns about free speech and framing the firing as a business decision. Conclusion: The Trump-Starmer meeting reflected a broad effort to reinforce U.S.-UK ties amid ongoing global crises. While areas of disagreement remain, particularly on Middle East policy, both leaders signaled alignment on Ukraine, NATO, and global security cooperation.

Five Key Takeaways from Trump-Starmer Meeting in the UK

Aylesbury, UK – September 18, 2025 — U.S. President Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer presented a united front on major global issues during a joint press conference at Chequers, wrapping up Trump’s three-day visit to the United Kingdom. Despite recent tensions between Washington and European allies, the meeting underscored strong transatlantic ties as the two leaders discussed Ukraine, NATO, Gaza, Afghanistan, and more. 1. Trump Says Putin ‘Let Him Down’ Over UkrainePresident Trump expressed frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin over the prolonged war in Ukraine, admitting he underestimated the challenge of resolving the conflict.“I thought it would be easiest because of my relationship with President Putin, but he’s let me down,” Trump said.PM Starmer reiterated the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine, vowing to increase pressure on Russia and push for a lasting peace deal. 2. Divergence on Gaza, But Unity Against HamasWhile both leaders condemned Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, they differed on the broader approach to the Gaza conflict.Trump avoided criticizing Israel’s ongoing military campaign, which has killed over 65,000 Palestinians, calling October 7 “one of the worst days in the history of humanity.”Starmer’s previous pledge to recognize a Palestinian state was noted as a “point of disagreement,” but Trump praised the UK leader’s strong stance against Hamas. 3. Trump Praises NATO and Increased Defense SpendingOnce a vocal NATO critic, Trump struck a different tone, applauding the alliance’s commitment to boost defense spending.“I want to thank NATO and our wonderful head of NATO, Mark [Rutte]… They’ve done a great job,” he said, highlighting a new pledge for members to spend 5% of GDP on defense.Trump emphasized U.S. support in supplying weapons to NATO allies, stressing that the alliance was now “paying its fair share.” 4. Bagram Airbase Back in FocusTrump hinted at possible negotiations with the Taliban for the U.S. to regain access to the Bagram airbase in Afghanistan, which was vacated in 2021 during the Biden administration’s withdrawal.“We’re trying to get it back,” Trump said, citing its strategic location near China’s nuclear facilities.The Taliban, however, quickly dismissed the proposal, stating they welcome engagement with the U.S. but will not allow any foreign military presence. 5. Trump Weighs in on Kimmel FiringTrump also addressed the firing of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel by ABC, following political controversy over remarks involving conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.“Jimmy Kimmel was fired because he had bad ratings… He’s not a talented person,” Trump said, dismissing concerns about free speech and framing the firing as a business decision. Conclusion:The Trump-Starmer meeting reflected a broad effort to reinforce U.S.-UK ties amid ongoing global crises. While areas of disagreement remain, particularly on Middle East policy, both leaders signaled alignment on Ukraine, NATO, and global security cooperation.

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US, UK Sign Nuclear Deal to Build Reactors and Power AI Data Centres

US, UK Sign Nuclear Deal to Build Reactors and Power AI Data Centres

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and US President Donald Trump have signed a multibillion-pound agreement to expand nuclear energy infrastructure in both countries, aimed at addressing rising power demands and bolstering clean energy initiatives. The deal, called the Atlantic Partnership for Advanced Nuclear Energy, includes plans to construct up to 12 advanced modular reactors in Hartlepool, northeast England. These reactors are expected to power 1.5 million homes and create up to 2,500 jobs. The agreement also covers the development of next-generation data centres powered by small modular reactors (SMRs) in Nottinghamshire, in a project valued at £11 billion ($15 billion). US-based Holtec, France’s EDF Energy, and UK investment firm Tritax will lead the data centre initiative, while UK energy supplier Centrica will partner with American firm X-energy on the Hartlepool reactors. The partnership builds on ongoing nuclear collaborations between UK firm Rolls-Royce and US contractor BWXT and is part of a broader strategy to modernise aging UK nuclear infrastructure. The UK currently operates eight nuclear power stations, most of which are nearing the end of their service life. The move comes as global demand for low-carbon, high-reliability energy surges—particularly in industries like artificial intelligence, where energy needs are rapidly increasing. The US aims to quadruple its nuclear capacity by 2050, with Trump’s administration supporting the expansion of modular reactor technology as a faster and cheaper alternative to traditional plants. Experts estimate the UK-US nuclear programme could generate at least £40 billion ($54.4 billion) in economic value. Construction timelines for these modular reactors typically span five to seven years, with deployment expected to begin in the early 2030s.

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One Year On: Rotherham Residents Recall Horror of 2024 Riots Outside Migrant Hotel

By Kamal yalwa Saturday, 2 August 2025 | Rotherham, South Yorkshire A year after violent anti-immigration riots broke out in Rotherham, residents living near the Holiday Inn Express—used at the time to house asylum seekers—are still haunted by the scenes they witnessed. “It looked like a modern-day lynching,” said Paris, who, along with her partner Josh, lives just 200 metres from the hotel. “We thought we were going to see someone thrown out a window or dragged outside.” The riot, which erupted on 4 August 2024, was one of the worst outbreaks of disorder during a turbulent week of unrest across several UK towns. Tensions had reached a boiling point just days after a knife attack in Southport claimed the lives of three schoolgirls, intensifying frustrations around immigration policy. Masked demonstrators, some carrying bags of alcohol and accompanied by children, set fires and stormed the hotel. Josh recalled moving their car to a nearby street for safety before retreating indoors to watch nearly seven hours of chaos unfold. Lingering Tensions, Lasting Impact Twelve months later, the Holiday Inn Express has reopened to the public. But the unrest has left a lasting mark—not just on the building, which was set on fire during the riot—but on community relations. “I still see all this hate being spilled in online groups,” said Josh. “I think it probably could happen again,” Paris added. “That’s the faith I have in the country, really.” South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard warned that the violence could have had even deadlier consequences. “Had the rioters been more effective, we would have seen people dying that day,” he told Sky News. He blamed unresolved poverty and social inequality for fuelling resentment in some communities and called for a stronger focus on social cohesion and asylum reform. “Politics is not doing a good job of dealing with these issues,” Coppard added. ‘People Want to Riot Again’ Despite multiple prosecutions and lengthy prison sentences handed down to those involved, some locals believe the core frustrations remain unresolved. In Rotherham market, 23-year-old scaffolder Josh said the issue hasn’t gone away. “It makes people angry… it makes people want to riot again.” Others, like Gabriel, 38, who was born in Rotherham, said he has felt a shift in public perception. “People look at me differently now,” he said. “That tension is worse than the incident itself—before it was hidden, now it’s out there.” A woman who asked to remain anonymous expressed concern over rising polarisation: “The backlash is going to happen—people against government, government against people. But we all have to live together… we bleed the same blood.” National Reckoning on Immigration The events in Rotherham have come to symbolise a wider failure in the UK’s immigration system, exposing deep-seated frustrations in neglected communities. Recent protests outside migrant hotels suggest those tensions still simmer beneath the surface, with calls growing for comprehensive reform to prevent a repeat of last summer’s violence.

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Ozzy Osbourne Honoured with Final Tour Through Birmingham as Fans Flood Streets in Tribute

Thousands of fans lined the streets of Birmingham on Wednesday to pay their final respects to legendary rocker Ozzy Osbourne as his cortege made an emotional journey through the city he called home. The procession stopped at the iconic Black Sabbath Bridge on Broad Street, where mourners have created a shrine in tribute to the heavy metal pioneer, who died last week at the age of 76. Cries of “We love you, Ozzy!” rang out as the Osbourne family — Sharon, Jack, Kelly, and Aimee — laid flowers and paused to read the heartfelt messages left by fans. Sharon Osbourne, visibly emotional, offered a peace sign to the crowd before returning to the vehicle. Each family member held a pink rose wrapped in black paper and tied with a purple ribbon — colours synonymous with Black Sabbath. The hearse carrying Ozzy also bore floral arrangements in matching hues. The cortege began its route at Ozzy’s childhood home in Aston before heading into the city centre. The tribute came just weeks after Osbourne made his final stage appearance at Villa Park, where he performed alongside artists inspired by his decades-long career — including Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, and Yungblud. The day marked a powerful farewell to a music icon whose legacy continues to resonate with generations around the world.

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UK Faces Pressure to Recognise Palestinian State as Gaza Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

UK Faces Pressure to Recognise Palestinian State as Gaza Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

By Kamal YalwaUK,Gaza,July 26, 2025 Calls are intensifying for the UK to formally recognise the State of Palestine, as Labour MPs and humanitarian groups highlight the worsening crisis in Gaza and urge the government to take decisive action. The MP behind the recent cross-party letter urging recognition has warned that “time is running out” to support a viable two-state solution. This comes as Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed that the UK will assist with humanitarian airdrops into Gaza amid dire shortages of food and water. Starmer’s remarks followed mounting pressure on the UK to align with France, which recently announced plans to recognise Palestinian statehood by September. The Prime Minister said Britain is “prepared to play its part” in supporting aid efforts while continuing to work diplomatically toward a long-term peace framework. However, the planned airdrops have drawn criticism from humanitarian experts, who argue that they offer only symbolic relief in the face of growing starvation. Philippe Lazzarini, head of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), sharply condemned the airdrop strategy, calling it “a distraction and smokescreen.” In a post shared on social media, Lazzarini described the method as “expensive” and “inefficient,” and warned that airdrops “can even kill Palestinians” if mishandled. “A manmade hunger can only be addressed by political will. Lift the siege, open the gates & guarantee safe movement + dignified access to people in need,” he wrote. UNRWA says it has 6,000 trucks loaded with humanitarian supplies currently waiting in Jordan and Egypt, ready to enter Gaza if access is granted. The agency reiterated that only safe, sustained land entry points can adequately meet the scale of need on the ground. As the humanitarian catastrophe worsens, political momentum is building in Europe and beyond for the recognition of a Palestinian state—a move supporters believe could revive long-stalled peace talks and reaffirm international support for a two-state solution.

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Over 220 UK MPs Urge Starmer to Recognise Palestine as a State

More than 220 British MPs have signed a cross-party letter urging Prime Minister Keir Starmer to formally recognise Palestine as an independent state, significantly increasing pressure on Downing Street to shift its current position. The letter, coordinated by Labour MP and International Development Committee Chair Sarah Champion, calls the move a moral and historic responsibility, citing Britain’s colonial-era role in Palestine and its authorship of the 1917 Balfour Declaration. “British recognition of Palestine would be particularly powerful given its role as the author of the Balfour Declaration and the former Mandatory Power in Palestine,” the letter states. “Since 1980, we have backed a two-state solution. Such a recognition would give that position substance as well as living up to a historic responsibility.” The push comes amid intensifying humanitarian concerns in Gaza, where ongoing conflict has triggered severe food shortages, rising malnutrition, and allegations of targeted violence by Israeli forces. Earlier this month, around 60 Labour MPs privately appealed to Foreign Secretary David Lammy to act immediately. The growing number of signatories now reflects deeper frustration with what critics see as the UK government’s reluctance to back recognition despite its long-standing support for a two-state solution. In response, Prime Minister Starmer issued a statement on Friday describing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as “unrelenting,” calling for a regional peace plan that includes eventual Palestinian statehood. “Recognition of a Palestinian state has to be one of those steps. I am unequivocal about that. But it must be part of a wider plan which ultimately results in a two-state solution and lasting security for Palestinians and Israelis,” he said. International Pressure Mounts The UK’s hesitance now stands in contrast with France, whose President Emmanuel Macron announced his government would formally recognise Palestine at a UN conference in September. This has amplified pressure on the UK to act in concert with key allies. “They said they wanted to be in lockstep with allies, but this means that position won’t hold,” a Labour MP told reporters. US President Donald Trump, however, dismissed Macron’s announcement, saying: “What he says doesn’t matter… He’s a good guy, but that statement doesn’t carry weight.” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly condemned the French decision, calling it a reward for terrorism following the October 7 attack, and warning that a Palestinian state could become “another Iranian proxy” and a direct threat to Israel. UK Government Defends Position Technology Secretary Peter Kyle defended the UK’s stance, saying the government supports eventual statehood but insists that recognition must happen within the framework of a long-term peace process. “We want Palestinian statehood… but right now, we’ve got to focus on easing the extreme, unwarranted suffering in Gaza,” he said on Friday. The Foreign Office reiterated its support for a two-state solution, stating it will recognise Palestine only when it can “make the most impact” in support of peace. An emergency meeting with French and German officials was also convened Friday to address what Starmer called a “human catastrophe” in Gaza, underscoring the urgent diplomatic and humanitarian dimensions of the crisis.

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