PORTUGAL WILL OFFICIALLY RECOGNIZE PALESTINE AS STATE ON SUNDAY, SAYS GOVERNMENT
Lisbon, Portugal — Portugal has confirmed that it will officially recognise the State of Palestine on Sunday, September 21, 2025, ahead of a high-level UN General Assembly conference addressing Palestinian statehood.
Government Statement
The Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement that the decision follows consultations with Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, the President, and Parliament. In July 2025, Portugal had already signalled its intentions, citing ongoing developments in the Gaza conflict, humanitarian concerns, and repeated threats of annexation of Palestinian territories as key reasonings behind the move.
Context & Global Response
Portugal’s decision is part of a wave of recognitions by Western countries. Australia, Canada, France, and the United Kingdom are among those expected to make similar recognitions around the same time. The announcement also aligns with a growing international focus on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and mounting criticism over civilian casualties.
The Palestinian Authority has welcomed Portugal’s recognition, calling it a “brave step” that supports international law and efforts for a two-state solution.
Importance & Implications
- This move is symbolic but politically significant. It reinforces Portugal’s stance on self-determination for Palestinians and aligns it with a group of countries pushing for statehood recognition.
- It may put diplomatic pressure on countries that have not yet recognized Palestine, especially within the European Union.
- It could influence discussions at the UNSC, UNGA, and international bodies about the rights of Palestinians, the conflict in Gaza, and the two-state solution.
