Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela has confirmed that Malta will formally recognize a Palestinian state during the United Nations General Assembly in September. The announcement follows closely on the heels of similar declarations by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, signaling a growing wave of international support for Palestinian statehood within the European Union. In a statement posted to Facebook, Abela emphasized that Malta’s decision reflects a commitment to advancing peace efforts in the Middle East. Reports suggest the Maltese government has been under increasing domestic pressure to take this step, with the center-right opposition also calling for immediate recognition in July.

Malta’s inclusion in the pro-Palestinian bloc of EU nations—alongside Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, and others—reinforces its alignment with broader European support for a two-state solution. Abela had initially planned to make the announcement in June, but the UN meeting was postponed. In May, Ireland, Norway, and Spain moved forward with recognition, setting the stage for Malta’s declaration. Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Starmer stated that British recognition will hinge on specific conditions, including a Gaza ceasefire and Israeli steps toward a long-term peace deal. As the September UN assembly approaches, the growing momentum among Western nations to recognize a Palestinian state adds significant diplomatic pressure on Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

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SOURCE: Israel Hayom