Australia, the UK and Canada have formally recognised a Palestinian state, prompting an angry response from Israel, which ruled out the prospect.

The joint initiative by the three Commonwealth nations and longstanding allies on Sunday signals increasing anger over Israel’s actions in the Gaza conflict and its measures to hinder Palestinian statehood, such as the ongoing settlement expansion in the West Bank.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the three announcements were “part of a coordinated international effort to build new momentum for a two-state solution.”

Such a move would clear the way for Israel to deepen its control over the territory – and escalate tensions with the international community.

Hamas welcomed the decision, describing it as a “rightful outcome of our people’s struggle, steadfastness, and sacrifices on the path to liberation and return.” The Islamic militant organization, which is committed to Israel’s destruction, urged the world to isolate Israel.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, whose Palestinian Authority exercises limited self-rule in various towns and cities in the West Bank, stated that the UK announcement is a crucial step toward achieving a “just and lasting peace in the region based on the two-state solution,” as reported by the official Palestinian news agency Wafa.