Daoud Kuttab: Western Recognition Of Palestine Reinforces Palestinian Narrative And Ends“Disputed Territories” Claim

(MENAFN- Amman Net) Palestinian journalist and writer Daoud Kuttab said that the recognition of the State of Palestine by several Western countries, led by the United Kingdom, marks a significant political and historical shift in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He emphasized that it challenges the Israeli narrative claiming that Palestinian lands are“disputed.”

Speaking to Radio Al-Balad, Kuttab explained that this Western recognition affirms that the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem are occupied Palestinian territories. It also grants Palestine full state status under international agreements, effectively activating provisions of the Geneva Conventions that prohibit settlement expansion and collective punishment.

Kuttab noted that the move could increase Israel's international isolation and open the door to boycotts of settlement products and bans on Israel's participation in global sporting and cultural events, similar to the international pressure that contributed to ending apartheid in South Africa.

He stressed that recognition is not the final goal but the beginning of a new path toward liberation. The responsibility now lies with Palestinians and Arab countries to strengthen their political position and follow up with concrete steps to end the occupation.

Kuttab highlighted the significance of this recognition coming from countries historically supportive of Israel, such as the UK, which issued the Balfour Declaration. Today, these nations clearly acknowledge that these lands are Palestinian and not legally“disputed.”

He added that European recognition reflects broad public pressure within Western societies, especially after the crimes committed by Israel in Gaza and the West Bank, prompting governments to consider the domestic political and legal implications, including their obligations to prevent genocide.

Kuttab also warned that Israel might attempt escalatory measures such as annexation or forced displacement. However, he emphasized that the growing international recognition of Palestine weakens Israel's justifications and empowers Palestinians to push for sanctions and international accountability.

He concluded that these recognitions represent the start of a new political trajectory, urging Palestinians and Arab states to capitalize on this momentum to establish Palestine firmly within its 1967 borders, including East Jerusalem.

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