Jerusalem: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a strong rebuke after the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Portugal formally recognized the State of Palestine, calling the move a “reward for terrorism” and vowing that a Palestinian state will “never be established west of the Jordan River.”

The coordinated recognition by these Western nations marks one of the most significant diplomatic shifts in recent years. Leaders in London, Ottawa, Canberra, and Lisbon emphasized that their decision was aimed at reviving the long-stalled two-state solution and renewing hope for peace, while distancing the move from any endorsement of Hamas.

Netanyahu, however, dismissed the announcement as a threat to Israel’s security. “This decision encourages violence and undermines Israel’s right to defend itself,” he said, reiterating that Israel would not compromise on its control of the West Bank and other contested areas.

The Palestinian Authority welcomed the recognition as a historic step toward sovereignty, while Hamas praised it as validation of Palestinian aspirations. Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki said the development brings “independence and sovereignty closer than ever.”

The United States criticized the recognition as a “performative gesture,” stressing that Israel’s security and the release of hostages remain its top priorities. Washington’s response underscored its continuing divergence from some of its closest allies over the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Diplomatic observers believe more countries may follow suit during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly, further increasing pressure on Israel. However, analysts caution that the recognition remains symbolic for now, as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens and Israel maintains territorial control.

The move signals a growing global impatience with the stagnation of peace talks and a shift in Western foreign policy, potentially reshaping the dynamics of Middle East diplomacy in the months ahead.