For decades, Malta has stood firmly behind the Palestinian cause. This stance was shaped by our own journey to statehood and championed by leaders like Prime Minister Dom Mintoff, who gave diplomatic status to the Palestinians as early as the 1970s. In 1989, under Malta’s Presidency of the UN General Assembly, we formally recognised the Palestinians’ right to a state, long before many others.

Back then, hope was in the air. The Oslo Accords in 1995 seemed to mark the beginning of a path to peace. Today, however, that optimism has all but vanished. But this is not about assigning blame. It’s about asking: what now?

Recent moves by countries such as France, the UK, and Malta, along with others, to recognise Palestine are politically significant. While recognition typically follows the Montevideo Convention’s criteria for statehood, this step is more symbolic, a message to the world that international law must prevail, and that the Palestinian cause cannot be erased by war, occupation, or annexation rhetoric.

At the same time, Hamas’s brutal attacks are indefensible. They must be condemned outright. There is no place for antisemitism or terrorism in the future we aspire to build. Hamas should disarm, release hostages, and step aside from governance.

The Palestinian Authority aspires to lead a future Palestinian State. But its leadership must usher in new energy, reform, and a vision that inspires its people, especially its youth. Elections are essential but must be enabled and respected.

At the same time, the Abraham Accords are essential to protect Israel’s existence. The Israeli people also have the right to live in peace. The Two-State solution and the Abraham Accords must be pursued together.

A viable Palestinian state must be one that coexists peacefully with Israel. For that to happen, the Authority must be empowered, not weakened. Denying it access to funds and legitimacy only fuels radicalism. Malta must continue to support the Palestinian Authority on its path to reform.

The EU must regain its long-standing position as a beacon of international law and justice. Its inactions have dented its credibility in the region, and questions are still being raised as to whether the European Union can remain at an impasse, confronted by the catastrophe that is happening in Gaza.

As Malta’s Prime Minister said at the UN: “It is difficult, but not impossible.” That belief drives our actions, and must now drive a renewed global effort toward a two-state solution rooted in dignity, opportunity, and peace.