Malta to Recognize Palestine: PM Abela's Bold Move Amidst Humanitarian Crisis

Malta to Recognize State of Palestine, Possibly by June 20: PM Abela's Announcement and Condemnation of Humanitarian Crisis VALLETTA, MALTA—In a significant development in the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela announced that Malta will officially recognize the state of Palestine. The announcement, made during a recent address, hinted at a potential recognition date of June 20th, coinciding with a United Nations conference focused on achieving a two-state solution. "After 45 years of discussion within our country about whether to recognize Palestine as a state, it will be a government led by me that will recognize a Palestinian state," Abela declared. A government spokesperson declined to confirm whether the decision hinges on the conference's outcome. Abela's statement also included a sharp condemnation of the prolonged blockade on aid to Palestine. "As a country, we cannot accept this," he emphasized, referring to the thousands of deaths from starvation. This powerful statement underscores the humanitarian urgency behind Malta's decision. The move marks a significant shift in Malta's stance and reflects a growing trend among EU member states to adopt a firmer position against Israel's actions in the region. The upcoming UN conference will be crucial in shaping the international response to the conflict and could further influence the timing of Malta's official recognition.