Luxembourg to Recognize Palestine as an Independent State

Luxembourg has announced its decision to officially recognize Palestine as an independent state. The declaration is expected to be made later this month at the United Nations General Assembly, in coordination with France and the United Kingdom.

According to a report published by the political news outlet Politico, Luxembourg’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister have confirmed the decision to the country’s parliamentary commission.

This move follows similar announcements from several European nations, including France, Belgium, and the UK. In July, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his country’s intention to recognize Palestinian statehood. Around the same time, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also indicated a willingness to do so.

Starmer stated that the UK would recognize Palestine at the UN General Assembly in September if the Israeli government failed to agree to a ceasefire in Gaza and commit to a long-term peace process.

In contrast to these diplomatic efforts, Israel launched a full-scale ground offensive on Gaza City on the night of August 16. Multiple international media outlets reported that the operation had the full backing of the United States, which nonetheless urged Israel to conclude it swiftly.

As of now, 147 countries—roughly 75% of the international community—have officially recognized Palestine as an independent state. Despite this widespread recognition, the humanitarian crisis and ongoing violence in Gaza continue unabated.

Observers say Luxembourg’s move adds further diplomatic pressure on Israel amid growing calls for a peaceful resolution to the decades-long conflict.