Diplomacy Global rifts set to deepen after latest recognitions

The recognition of a Palestinian state by the UK, Canada and Australia will set off a global diplomatic scramble as Israel considers a retaliatory annexation of parts of the West Bank, a move that would deepen its standoff with Europe, widen its rift with the Arab states, and further distance the US from its allies as the Trump administration maintains support for Benjamin Netanyahu and Israel in its war in Gaza.

- Andrew Roth

Washington had warned allies before yesterday's announcement that Israel would retaliate “symbolically”, and top officials were aware that Israel's response could imperil cornerstone initiatives including the Abraham accords, which sought to normalise relations between Israel and the Arab states but now appear in danger of collapse.

And the recognition of Palestine by the other members of the “Five Eyes” alliance, some of the US’s closest allies in intelligence matters, will increase tensions at a time when the partners are already at odds over aid to Ukraine as well as bilateral issues such as tariffs.