Malta to officially recognize Palestinian state at UN in September.
Malta will officially recognize the State of Palestine during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in September, Prime Minister Robert Abela announced on Tuesday evening.
Abela made the announcement via a Facebook post, stating that the decision reflects Malta’s “commitment to finding a solution that promotes lasting peace in the Middle East”.
The recognition announcement follows similar pledges by the United Kingdom and France in recent days
This move comes amid increasing domestic pressure: both Malta’s ruling party and a centre‑right opposition have called for immediate recognition.
Abela had initially indicated in May 2025 that recognition would occur at a UN conference in June, but that event was postponed, delaying the plan until September
Growing support in Europe
Earlier announcements by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, who both signaled their intention to recognize Palestine during the UN session, have created diplomatic momentum.
Starmer has insisted recognition could proceed unless Israel agrees to cease military operations in Gaza and recommit to a two-state solution
Macron likewise pledged Malta’s planned recognition aligns with France’s historic stance for lasting peace in the region
Other European Union members such as Ireland, Norway, and Spain recognized Palestine earlier in May, positioning Malta within a bloc of supportive states
