Malta to Recognize Palestine Next Month
The move is seen as a response to the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and it is expected that other EU member states may follow suit. Malta's decision to recognize Palestine is a significant step towards a more peaceful resolution to the conflict, and it is hoped that this will lead to a greater international effort to address the issue.
Malta's Prime Minister Robert Abela has announced that the country will recognize the State of Palestine next month, following a conference on June 20, in response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza where nearly 54,000 Palestinians have been killed.
The decision comes after months of cautious approach by Malta, which has historically been favourable to the Palestinian cause but had yet to recognize the Palestinian state, unlike other EU member states like Spain and Ireland. Prime Minister Abela stated that recognizing Palestine is a moral responsibility and will be done following a formal decision at the conference.
Malta's reluctance to take a leading role in recognizing Palestine may have been due to its caution not to offend the US, its pending application to join the OECD, and its institutional roles in international bodies. However, the shift in European public opinion against Israel may have made it safer for Malta to recognize Palestine, although it will not be seen as a bold move.
The Labour government's caution on the issue has raised questions about its commitment to taking a principled stance, with Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg being cautious in condemning Israel's actions and the government's response to the recent conflict in Gaza being muted. Malta's diplomatic initiatives on Gaza have been limited, with the country voting in favour of UN General Assembly resolutions and co-signing joint letters with other countries.
The recognition of Palestine by Malta is expected to be a significant development in the country's foreign policy, and it remains to be seen how this decision will impact its relationships with other countries, particularly the US and Israel. Prime Minister Abela's announcement has been welcomed by many, and it is hoped that this decision will contribute to a positive resolution to the conflict in the region.