Portugal recognises Palestinian state ahead of UN meeting
The decision comes days before next week’s United Nations General Assembly in New York, where the conflict is expected to feature prominently
Portugal recognised a Palestinian state yesterday on 21 September, , joining a growing number of Western countries shifting policy as fighting in Gaza continues.
The decision comes days before next week's United Nations General Assembly in New York, where the conflict is expected to feature prominently, says the BBC.
Israel has criticised the moves. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said recognition "rewards terror" following the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack in southern Israel that killed about 1,200 people and saw 251 taken hostage.
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The United States, Israel's main ally, has echoed Netanyahu's position. President Donald Trump, speaking alongside British Prime Minister Keir Starmer during a state visit to London this week, said he disagreed with recognition.
About three-quarters of the UN's 193 member states already recognise a Palestinian state, which was granted non-member observer status in 2012.
Meanwhile, Israeli forces pressed ahead with a ground offensive in Gaza City on Saturday, forcing thousands of people to flee, residents and aid workers said.
At least 65,141 people have been killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza since the conflict began, according to the enclave's health ministry.
