Jamaica Becomes 142nd Country to Recognize State of Palestine

Jamaica has officially recognized the State of Palestine, becoming the 142nd country to do so. The decision was announced by Jamaican Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Kamina Johnson Smith following deliberations by the country's Cabinet.

In a statement, Smith said the move aligns with Jamaica's commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter, which aim to establish mutual respect and peaceful coexistence among states, as well as the recognition of the right of peoples to self-determination. "By recognizing the State of Palestine, Jamaica is strengthening its advocacy towards a peaceful solution," she added.

Jamaica joins around 140 other UN member states that have already recognized Palestine, including 11 Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries such as Barbados, which announced its formal diplomatic recognition last week. The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates welcomed Jamaica's decision and renewed its call for all countries that have not yet recognized the State of Palestine to do so as soon as possible.

Why this matters: Jamaica's recognition of Palestine comes amid ongoing tensions and conflict between Israel and Palestine. It reflects growing international support for Palestinian statehood and adds to the diplomatic pressure on Israel to engage in meaningful peace negotiations. The decision also highlights the role of smaller nations in shaping global politics and advocating for peaceful resolutions to long-standing conflicts.

The Jamaican government reaffirmed its support for a two-state solution as the only viable option to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, guarantee Israel's security, and uphold the dignity and rights of Palestinians. Smith expressed deep concerns over the ongoing war in Gaza and the escalating humanitarian crisis, calling for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and increased access to humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza, especially women and children.

The recognition comes as the United States recently vetoed a UN Security Council resolution that would have granted the Palestinians full UN membership. Some European countries have also revisited their position on recognizing Palestinian statehood given the stalled peace process with Israel.

While Jamaica and Barbados have diplomatic ties with Israel dating back to the 1960s, Barbados had faced criticism for not previously recognizing Palestine despite advocating for a two-state solution. The recent decisions by both Caribbean nations give the Palestinian Authority two diplomatic victories as it pushes for more countries to formally recognize Palestinian statehood.

Key Takeaways

• Jamaica officially recognized the State of Palestine, becoming the 142nd country to do so.
• Jamaica's decision aligns with UN principles and supports Palestinian right to self-determination.
• Jamaica joins 11 other CARICOM countries that have recognized Palestine, adding diplomatic pressure.
• Jamaica reaffirmed support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
• Jamaica's recognition comes as the US vetoed a UN resolution for Palestinian statehood.