Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has welcomed recent moves by European nations to recognize the State of Palestine. In an interview with Middle East Eye, Erdoğan stated, “We view the recent humanitarian responses, particularly from France and the United Kingdom, as extremely valuable. We welcome every step taken toward the recognition of a Palestinian state.”
Expressing deep concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Erdoğan added, “No one can remain silent in the face of such brutality—where children are dying of hunger and unarmed civilians searching for food are being deliberately shot.”
Portugal is the latest European nation to consider recognizing Palestine. According to a statement from the Portuguese Prime Minister’s Office, the country is evaluating the possibility of granting formal recognition as part of a process that may be finalized during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, set to take place in New York this September.
Canada has also indicated its intention to recognize Palestine. In a recent press conference, Canadian President Mark Carney described the situation in Gaza as unbearable and rapidly deteriorating. However, he noted that recognition would be conditional. Canada expects the Palestinian Authority to introduce fundamental governance reforms, exclude Hamas from the political process, hold general elections in 2026, and commit to the demilitarization of the region.
Earlier, French President Emmanuel Macron had also signaled his country’s plan to recognize Palestine in September. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer later echoed a similar stance, stating that the UK’s recognition would depend on whether certain conditions are met by Israel.
At present, nearly 150 of the 193 United Nations member states have officially recognized the State of Palestine.