Malta to Recognize Palestinian State at UN General Assembly

By Global Leaders Insights Team | Jul 30, 2025

Malta will officially recognize Palestine as a state at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in September, Prime Minister Robert Abela shared on Tuesday.

The decision puts Malta in step with other nations calling for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza grows ever more dire.

In a candid Facebook post, Abela said Malta’s choice shows its heart is with the Palestinian people.  “Our position reflects our commitment to efforts for a lasting peace in the Middle East,” he wrote.

As a small Mediterranean country and part of the EU, Malta has felt increasing pressure from everyday citizens and its centre-right opposition to take a stand.

 

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The move comes as the world watches the heartbreaking crisis in Gaza, where local officials report over 60,000 Palestinian deaths. Images of suffering and destruction have stirred global outrage and calls for change. By recognizing Palestine—including the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem—Malta hopes to lend weight to the Palestinian push for statehood.

Abela had planned to make this announcement at a UN conference in June, but it was delayed. Now, with the General Assembly starting September 10, Malta joins countries like France, Ireland, Norway, and Spain in supporting Palestinian statehood. France’s President Emmanuel Macron recently confirmed his nation’s plans, while UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Britain might follow if Israel doesn’t tackle Gaza’s humanitarian crisis and engage in peace talks.

Israel has hit back, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu calling these recognitions a “reward for terrorism.” Still, with 148 countries now recognizing Palestine, Malta’s step adds to a growing wave of support.

Also Read: Israeli Foreign Minister Reprimands Netherlands Over Gaza Criticism

As the UN General Assembly draws near, many hope this momentum will breathe new life into the dream of a two-state solution, offering a chance for peace in a region that’s faced conflict for far too long.