Valletta: Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela announced that Malta will recognize the state of Palestine during the United Nations General Assembly in September. This decision aligns with recent announcements by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and follows France’s plans to do the same.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Abela shared the announcement on Facebook, stating that Malta’s position reflects its commitment to efforts for lasting peace in the Middle East. This move comes amid growing internal pressure within the Maltese government to recognize Palestine, with the right-wing opposition calling for immediate recognition in mid-July.

Malta, an EU member, has historically supported Palestinian causes and the two-state solution. Abela initially revealed the intention to recognize Palestine in May, with plans for a UN conference in June, which was later postponed. Other countries, including Ireland, Norway, and Spain, have already recognized Palestine as an independent state in May.