Malta has announced its plan to officially recognize the Palestinian state during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly session in September. Prime Minister Robert Abela made this announcement via social media, emphasizing Malta’s commitment to promoting lasting peace in the Middle East.
This decision follows similar moves by other European nations such as the United Kingdom and France, which have also expressed intentions to recognize Palestine at the same UN session. Malta’s announcement comes amid growing domestic support, with both the ruling party and opposition urging immediate recognition.
Initially, Malta intended to formalize recognition during a UN conference in June 2025. However, the event was postponed, delaying the process until the September assembly. The move places Malta among a group of European countries including Ireland, Norway, and Spain, which have recognized Palestine earlier this year.
Prime Minister Abela highlighted Malta’s long-standing support for the two-state solution and its friendly relations with the Palestinian people. While Malta had previously been listed as recognizing Palestine in 1988, this upcoming recognition will mark the first formal acknowledgment at the UN level.
The recognition by Malta is expected to inspire other countries to follow suit during the General Assembly. A peace summit scheduled for late July in New York will further discuss steps toward resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Despite this, some opposition remains. Israeli and U.S. officials have criticized recent recognitions, warning they may encourage hostile actions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has denounced these moves, calling them a reward for terrorism.
Malta’s decision to recognize Palestine officially signals its role as an advocate for peace. The step also increases international diplomatic pressure on Israel and supports broader efforts to achieve a two-state solution in the region.
This development highlights Malta’s active participation in global diplomacy and its commitment to fostering peace in the Middle East.
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