LISBON, July 31, 2025 —
The Government of Portugal will begin formal consultations with the President and Parliament over whether to support the recognition of the State of Palestine during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in September, Prime Minister Luís Montenegro’s office confirmed on Wednesday.
The decision to initiate internal deliberations reflects growing diplomatic momentum in Europe surrounding Palestinian statehood, with Portugal seeking to assess its position amid evolving regional dynamics and increased calls for a coordinated international response to the Gaza conflict.
Government Statement and Policy Review
In a statement released by the Prime Minister’s office, the government underscored its commitment to multilateral diplomacy, stating, “Portugal is carefully evaluating the matter of recognition within the framework of international law and regional peace initiatives. A final position will be formed following consultations with the President of the Republic and the Assembly of the Republic.”
Prime Minister Montenegro is expected to begin discussions with President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and senior parliamentary leaders in early August, ahead of the UN General Assembly’s annual meeting.
Context: European Recognition Drive
Portugal’s deliberation comes in the wake of similar moves by several European nations, including Spain, Ireland, Norway, and Slovenia, all of which have formally recognized the State of Palestine in recent months. These countries have cited the prolonged humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the need to revive a two-state peace framework as reasons for their recognition.
While Portugal has traditionally supported a negotiated two-state solution, it has so far refrained from unilateral recognition, maintaining that such a decision must contribute meaningfully to peace and stability in the region.
Domestic and International Implications
Recognition of Palestinian statehood remains a politically sensitive issue in Europe, with some governments calling for immediate action, while others advocate a more cautious, consensus-based approach. Within Portugal, lawmakers from multiple parties have urged the government to align with broader European efforts to support Palestinian aspirations for statehood and sovereignty.
Should Portugal move forward with recognition, it would represent a significant policy shift and potentially bolster the emerging bloc of European states seeking to influence peace negotiations through diplomatic recognition.
Outlook
No firm timeline has been set for a final decision, but sources within the government indicated that a formal stance is likely to be announced ahead of the UN session in September. Portugal’s position could prove pivotal in shaping wider EU engagement on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and setting the tone for further recognition efforts at the international level.
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