Globally renowned figures, including politicians, artists, and writers, are racing to join the recognition of the Palestinian state. Last Friday, Obama called for the establishment of a Palestinian state. His announcement, described by the American network CNN as rare, coincided with the wave of recognition for Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly meetings.

Obama added that it is important for America now to show that it is not a direct party to the violence, as it is unacceptable for children to die of hunger, and there is no military justification to continue demolishing what is already rubble. He said it is unacceptable to ignore the humanitarian crisis occurring inside Gaza, and it is necessary to insist that both sides find a way to ensure the establishment of a Palestinian state and self-rule alongside a secure Israel.

He criticized leaders for failing to resolve conflicts, specifically mentioning Netanyahu, saying their relationship was tense, they were not in agreement, and were not best friends. He also criticized Hamas, stating that their malicious approach endangers all their people, calling it the height of irony which he also rejects.

For the first time in the history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, countries that have not yet recognized the Palestinian state had to justify their non-participation in the recognition demonstration carried out by some of Israel’s historically closest allied countries at the UN General Assembly meetings.

New Zealand’s Foreign Minister, Winston Peters, announced that his country will recognize Palestine when the time is right, stating that it is not wise to declare recognition at this time because what is sought now are real steps towards achieving full legitimacy for the State of Palestine, not just rhetoric in that direction.

He called on Israel to stop all its measures that destroy the two-state solution, including illegal settlements in the West Bank, and to return to serious negotiations with the Palestinians. He also demanded that Hamas release all hostages it holds, dissolve its organization, disarm, and renounce violence.

It is worth noting that Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, some of New Zealand’s closest allies, were among the last group to participate in recognizing the State of Palestine.