Who is supporting Palestine today? The answer lies in a growing number of countries, organizations, and global actors pushing for recognition of the State of Palestine and advocating for a two-state solution. From the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to major European nations, support has expanded significantly over the past decades.
This article explores the historical background, current supporters, and the geopolitical, humanitarian, and legal dimensions of Palestine’s recognition. It integrates key entities such as Yasser Arafat, the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), Israel, the Oslo Accords, and the debate over illegal settlements in the West Bank to provide a complete and balanced perspective.
Table of Contents
Who is Supporting Palestine?
As of 2025, 147 UN member states – representing about 75% of the world – officially recognize the State of Palestine. These include most of Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and an increasing number of European Union countries such as Norway, Ireland, Spain, Slovenia, Sweden, France, and the United Kingdom. The Holy See (Vatican City) also formally recognizes Palestine.
Historical Context of Support
The 1988 Declaration of Independence
In 1988, Yasser Arafat, chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), declared the State of Palestine with Jerusalem as its capital. More than 80 countries, primarily from the Global South, recognized Palestine soon after.
The Oslo Accords
The Oslo Accords (1993) marked a milestone, creating the framework for a peace process between Israel and the PLO. Although intended to lead to a two-state solution, implementation stalled, with continued settlement expansion in the West Bank undermining progress.
Recent Shifts: Europe and Beyond
- Norway, Ireland, and Spain recognized Palestine in May 2024, triggering significant debate in Europe.
- Slovenia followed in June 2024, reinforcing momentum inside the European Union.
- France announced plans for recognition in 2025, linking it to peace negotiations at the UNGA.
- In September 2025, the United Kingdom formally recognized Palestine, breaking from decades of cautious foreign policy.
These moves signaled a widening split from the United States and Israel, which oppose premature recognition.
Global Support Breakdown
| Region | Countries Supporting Palestine |
| Africa | All except Eritrea, Cameroon |
| Asia | Majority, including China, India, Indonesia |
| Latin America | Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, and others |
| Europe | Sweden, Ireland, Spain, Norway, Slovenia, France, UK |
| Middle East | All Arab League members |
| Special Entities | Holy See (Vatican City) |
Why Countries Support Palestine
- Humanitarian Concerns: Widespread suffering in Gaza and the West Bank.
- International Law: Opposition to illegal settlements in the West Bank.
- Peace Process: Belief that recognition pressures both sides toward the two-state solution.
- Diplomatic Balancing: Strengthening ties with Arab and Global South nations.
What I Like (Strengths of Global Support)
- Widespread recognition boosts Palestine’s legitimacy at the UN.
- Humanitarian assistance has increased, including medical aid to Gaza.
- Recognition strengthens Palestine’s ability to pursue justice in international courts.
- Broad coalitions create diplomatic pressure on Israel to halt settlement expansion.
Areas for Improvement
- Recognition alone does not end occupation or violence.
- Political divisions within Palestinian leadership (Fatah vs. Hamas) undermine effectiveness.
- Lack of unified Western support – the US, Germany, and Italy remain opposed.
- Implementation of peace frameworks (e.g., Oslo Accords) has repeatedly failed.
Case Study: UK Recognition in 2025
The United Kingdom’s recognition of Palestine in September 2025 illustrates the intersection of humanitarian urgency and political calculation. British leaders cited:
- Escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza
- Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank
- The need to revive the fading hope of a two-state solution
This marked a historic shift in UK foreign policy and aligned London with the majority of the international community.
FAQ: Who is Supporting Palestine?
Q1: How many countries support Palestine in 2025?
A: 147 UN member states plus the Holy See.
Q2: Do any G7 countries recognize Palestine?
A: Yes – France, UK, and Canada have joined, but the US, Germany, Italy, and Japan have not.
Q3: What is the role of the United Nations in supporting Palestine?
A: The UNGA upgraded Palestine to non-member observer state in 2012, and it remains a key forum for recognition debates.
Q4: Why is Israel opposed to recognition?
A: Israel argues recognition rewards Hamas and undermines direct negotiations.
Q5: How do illegal settlements affect Palestine’s recognition?
A: Many countries view settlement expansion in the West Bank as a violation of international law and a key reason to strengthen Palestine’s status.
Conclusion
The answer to who is supporting Palestine reflects both history and current geopolitics. With 147 countries, including growing support from the European Union and recognition by the Holy See, Palestine has achieved broad legitimacy. Yet challenges remain: stalled peace processes, settlement expansion, and divided leadership. The road to a lasting two-state solution is long, but global recognition keeps the light of peace alive.
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References
- United Nations General Assembly Resolutions (1988, 2012)
- Al Jazeera, AJLabs (2025): Mapping which countries recognize Palestine
- Oslo Accords documentation, 1993
- Public statements from France, UK, Ireland, Norway, Spain, and Slovenia (2024–2025)
