The question of Palestinian statehood has long been a cornerstone of Middle Eastern diplomacy, but recent developments at the United Nations suggest that momentum is once again gathering – this time with Algeria taking a prominent role. Since joining the UN Security Council as a non-permanent member in January 2024, Algeria has made it a top priority to bring the issue of Palestine’s recognition back to the forefront of international debate.
From Oslo to the Present: A Long Road to Recognition
The groundwork for Palestinian statehood was laid more than three decades ago, beginning with the Oslo Accords of the early 1990s. These agreements marked a historic turning point, as they led to mutual recognition between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) and outlined a framework for peace and eventual statehood. However, progress since Oslo has been slow and frequently disrupted by violence, political changes, and shifting global interests.
Despite the challenges, over 140 UN member states have already recognised the State of Palestine in some form. Yet formal, universal recognition — particularly through the United Nations General Assembly or Security Council — remains elusive, largely due to opposition or vetoes by powerful member states.
Algeria’s Role on the Security Council
Since securing its seat on the Security Council, Algeria has taken a proactive stance. Its diplomats have worked diligently to reintroduce the issue in both formal and informal UN settings, arguing that the time has come for the international community to stand firmly in support of Palestinian self-determination.
Algeria’s strategy has been both diplomatic and symbolic. It has sought to rally support from other Arab nations, African allies, and members of the Global South — many of whom share a post-colonial history and sympathise with the Palestinian cause. Furthermore, Algeria’s emphasis on legality and international justice has resonated with countries disillusioned by decades of stalled peace negotiations.
According to sources within the UN, Algeria is currently drafting a new resolution that would reaffirm the right of Palestinians to an independent and sovereign state, with East Jerusalem as its capital. The resolution is expected to be presented to the General Assembly before the end of the year.
A Symbolic but Strategic Recognition
While a Security Council resolution officially recognising the State of Palestine would carry the most weight, it remains unlikely due to the expected veto from the United States. However, recognition by the UN General Assembly, which operates without the veto system, could serve as a powerful political gesture.
Such recognition would not immediately change the situation on the ground, but it would further isolate Israel diplomatically and could potentially give Palestine more legal avenues within international institutions such as the International Criminal Court (ICC) or the International Court of Justice (ICJ). It would also strengthen Palestine’s position in future negotiations and put additional pressure on Western nations to reassess their stance.
Growing International Support
Recent global developments suggest that the tide may be turning. In Europe, countries like Norway, Ireland, and Spain have announced or formalised their recognition of Palestine, prompting others to reconsider their positions. South Africa, Brazil, and many Middle Eastern and Asian nations have long supported Palestinian statehood.
Algeria, drawing on its history of anti-colonial struggle and its longstanding support for Palestine, is using this momentum to orchestrate a new wave of support within the UN. Observers note that the current geopolitical climate — with increased focus on human rights and decolonisation — makes this a particularly opportune moment.
What Comes Next?
If Algeria succeeds in pushing through a General Assembly vote on Palestinian statehood before the end of 2025, it will mark one of the most significant diplomatic moves in recent years in favour of the Palestinian cause. While it may not bring about immediate peace or statehood in practical terms, it could shift the international narrative and lay the groundwork for a renewed peace process with a stronger balance of power.
As Algeria continues to lead from the front, the world watches to see whether the long-deferred recognition of the State of Palestine will finally become reality — not just in word, but in meaningful international support.