Growing recognition of Palestinian statehood by the international community, while welcome, must be matched with punitive sanctions to force Israel to end its genocidal campaign in Gaza, according to Social Democrats foreign affairs spokesperson Patricia Stephenson.
Senator Stephenson said:
“Following yesterday’s declarations by the UK, Canada, Australia and Portugal, today’s session of the UN General Assembly is set to see France, Belgium, Malta and Luxembourg also recognise the state of Palestine.
“However, growing support for a two-state solution to this decades-long conflict must go beyond mere symbolism.
“Recognition of Palestinian statehood is hugely important. But it doesn’t change the appalling situation on the ground, where Gazans face daily indiscriminate bombing by the IDF and death from enforced starvation.
“Without immediate sanctions against Israel, we will see the death toll continue to rise in Gaza and the increased displacement of Palestinians from their homes in the West Bank by violent settlers – aided and abetted by Netanyahu’s right-wing government.
“The international community must now show some backbone and stand up to Israel and its staunchest supporters, including the US administration.
“Decisions made in relation to Gaza and Palestine at the 80th UN General Assembly – which is being attended by the Taoiseach and Tánaiste – will serve as a marker for member states’ credibility and humanity.
“The Palestinian people have nothing to gain from this UN session simply ending up as another talking shop for world leaders.”
September 22, 2025