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In recent days, Western political leaders have made significant statements regarding the recognition of the State of Palestine. This series of events was initiated by French President Emmanuel Macron, who communicated to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas his intention to recognize Palestine as early as September, coinciding with the opening of the new United Nations cycle.
But what lies behind these promises? These statements have attracted the attention of other leaders, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, both of whom are ready to follow Macron's lead. However, legitimate questions arise about the real desire to ensure a stable future for Palestine, given the conditions imposed.
Statements by Western leaders
Macron emphasized that "peace is possible" and that there is "a historic commitment." However, recognition of Palestine is subject to a series of conditions, such as disarmament and political reforms. These requirements, agreed upon with Abbas, appear to be aimed at ensuring that Palestine does not become a truly independent entity, but rather a nation under international supervision. Starmer, for his part, stated that recognition will only occur if Israel does not cease its operations in Gaza, suggesting withdrawing the option if the situation does not change. But is this really the way to build peace?
The Franco-Saudi conference on Palestine, held in New York, saw the signing of a declaration by 15 countries, expressing their intention to consider recognizing Palestine. But at what cost? The Western leaders' words seem more like an attempt to respond to internal pressure than a real step toward peace. Each announcement is accompanied by conditions that, in effect, limit Palestine's autonomy, transforming it into a demilitarized nation under international control. Is this the real solution?
The conditions imposed and the reactions
The conditions imposed by Western leaders, such as Hamas's disarmament and international supervision, raise questions about the sustainability of a future Palestinian state. Macron referred to a letter from Abbas, which stated that the time for a two-state solution is ripe, but the reforms demanded seem more like a way to maintain control than to promote self-determination. Promises of recognition, therefore, risk being empty unless accompanied by concrete measures to stop the violence and guarantee Palestinian rights.
Starmer has made it clear that recognition of Palestine is contingent on Israel's behavior, which introduces an element of uncertainty. If Israel doesn't change course, Britain may withdraw its support. This approach seems more like an ultimatum than a genuine commitment to peace. Carney's Canada has also expressed itself in similar terms, implying that recognition will depend on the evolution of the situation on the ground. But to what extent can we trust these statements?
Conclusions: Hypocrisy or a genuine desire for change?
The announcement of recognition of Palestine by some Western leaders appears to be yet another act of hypocrisy, driven by political rather than humanitarian reasons. It comes at a time when the atrocities committed by the Israeli military are plain for the world to see. While recognition of a Palestinian state may seem like a step forward, without concrete support and protection measures, it risks remaining merely a symbolic maneuver. And what can we do to change this situation?
If we truly want change, Western countries must demonstrate a willingness to act, not just with words. Sanctions, boycotts of settlements, and support for legal initiatives against human rights violations could be more effective tools to influence the situation. Recognizing Palestine is important, but it must be accompanied by concrete actions that guarantee its existence and the right to self-determination. It's time to move from words to action.