Portugal to recognize Palestine Sept. 21, citing Gaza crisis and annexation threats.

Portugal will recognize the State of Palestine on September 21, ahead of a UN General Assembly meeting on Palestinian statehood. The decision, confirmed by the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs after nearly 15 years of debate, follows consultations by Prime Minister Luis Montenegro. It aligns Portugal with nations including France, Canada, the UK, and Australia amid growing international concern over the Gaza humanitarian crisis, escalating violence, and allegations that Israel’s military actions may constitute genocide. Portugal cited Israel’s threats to annex Palestinian territories and the deteriorating situation as key reasons. The move supports Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas’s video address to the UNGA, backed by 145 countries. As of April 2025, about 147 UN member states—nearly 75%—have recognized Palestine.