Jamaica recognises the State of Palestine

The Government of Jamaica has taken the decision to recognise the State of Palestine, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Kamina Johnson Smith, has announced.

She says the decision follows discussions by the Cabinet on Monday. Jamaica now joins 140 Member States of the United Nations that have recognised the State of Palestine.

“Jamaica continues to advocate for a two-state solution as the only viable option to resolve the longstanding conflict, guarantee the security of Israel and uphold the dignity and rights of Palestinians. By recognising the State of Palestine, Jamaica strengthens its advocacy towards a peaceful solution,”  Johnson Smith said in a media release on Tuesday.

Johnson Smith says the decision is based on Jamaica's concerns regarding the war in Gaza and the ever-deepening humanitarian crisis, and the Government's advocacy for a peaceful resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through diplomatic dialogue rather than military actions.

She says the decision is aligned with Jamaica's strong commitment to the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, which seek to engender mutual respect and peaceful co-existence among states, as well as the recognition of the right of peoples to self-determination.

She has also reaffirmed Jamaica's support for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages and increased access to humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza, especially the many women and children who are suffering daily. 

“Jamaica continues to support all efforts for de-escalation and the establishment of lasting peace in the region, imploring all parties to consider the dire consequences of further conflict and commit to diplomatic solutions ensuring the safety and sovereignty of all," Johnson Smith says.

Follow The Gleaner on X and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.