First France, then the United Kingdom, and now Canada: three of America’s closest Western allies have recently voiced support for the idea of a Palestinian state, adding significant political heft to a movement already endorsed by more than 140 countries.On paper, it sounds like a diplomatic shift. In reality, the goal of Palestinian statehood may be further away than ever.
Why now?The recent declarations by France, Britain, and Canada stem from several motives:Frustration with Israel’s actions, especially in Gaza, where images of starving Palestinians have outraged many in the West.Domestic political pressure, as citizens and lawmakers demand their governments take a stand.A desire to reinvigorate peace efforts long stalled in the region.Meanwhile, Palestinians have welcomed these moves as a major boost for their cause, but Israel has rejected them outright, calling recognition of a Palestinian state tantamount to “rewarding terrorism.”Where does the US stand?These announcements have left the US looking increasingly isolated in its steadfast support for Israel. US President Trump, who has aspirations for a Middle East peace legacy, has grown frustrated with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu — especially over starvation in Gaza, which Netanyahu denies.Trump wants Saudi Arabia to normalise ties with Israel as part of expanding the Abraham Accords, but Riyadh has made it clear: there will be no normalisation without an irreversible path to Palestinian statehood.What’s stopping it?A lot. Here’s why the dream of a Palestinian state remains just that — a dream:1. No partner in powerIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu flat-out rejects a two-state solution. He has described the idea of a Palestinian state as a “launch pad to annihilate Israel.”Even if Netanyahu were to waver, hardline ministers in his coalition have threatened to collapse the government over any hint of compromise.2. Palestinian leadership vacuumOn the Palestinian side, things aren’t any more stable. The Palestinian Authority, which governs parts of the West Bank, is seen as weak and out of touch. Meanwhile, Hamas, which controls Gaza, is internationally designated as a terrorist group.So even if a state were created, who would run it? Who could actually deliver peace?3. The geography just doesn’t work anymoreThe borders discussed in the 1990s Oslo Accords, based on 1967 lines with minor land swaps, are now more fantasy than framework. Massive Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank has carved up Palestinian territory into disconnected fragments.A contiguous, functioning Palestinian state under these conditions is nearly impossible.Can Israel accept a Palestinian state?The short answer: Not under Netanyahu’s government.Netanyahu has declared that a Palestinian state would serve as a “launch pad to annihilate Israel.” Even more extreme members of his coalition openly oppose any Palestinian sovereignty and have threatened to collapse the government if Netanyahu shows signs of compromise.Some cabinet members have even suggested starving Palestinians in Gaza rather than negotiating.What does it all mean?Recognition by France, the UK, and Canada is largely symbolic without Israel’s agreement. In fact, it could even entrench Netanyahu further, allowing him to rally his base against what he will frame as unfair outside pressure.But at the same time, Israel’s growing international isolation — especially among its traditional Western allies — could build pressure on leaders like Trump to reconsider their unwavering support, potentially reshaping the diplomatic landscape.The harsh realityDespite global calls, a Palestinian state faces more roadblocks now than in past decades. If anything, the conflict and entrenched positions have made it harder to imagine such a state ever existing — let alone thriving.The dream of Palestinian statehood continues to inspire hope — and trigger fierce debates. But right now, it’s a dream suspended in diplomatic limbo, with no clear path, no consensus, and no timeline. The louder the world speaks, the more distant the solution seems.
