New poll shows a majority of Americans want UN members to recognize Palestine and urge stronger U.S. action to ease Gaza’s hunger crisis.
Most Americans now back efforts to recognize a Palestinian state, with 58% saying UN member states should recognize Palestinian state, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll. Sixty-five percent also believe the U.S. must step up to alleviate starvation in Gaza, and 59% describe Israel’s military response as “excessive,” up from 53% in February 2024. These shifts could reshape U.S. policy and align it more closely with key allies preparing landmark recognition moves at the UN.
What the New Reuters/Ipsos Poll Shows
Headline Findings
A clear majority of Americans support formal recognition of Palestine, view Israel’s Gaza campaign as excessive, and want stronger U.S. humanitarian action. The six-day survey of 4,446 U.S. adults ending August 18, 2025, carries a ±2 percentage point margin of error.
Why It Matters Now
Allies like Canada, the United Kingdom, and France are poised to announce recognition plans at the UN General Assembly in September. U.S. public backing for recognition and aid increases pressure on Washington to clarify its stance on a two-state solution and humanitarian relief.
The Recognition Question, Explained
What Recognition Involves
Recognition means a government formally accepts Palestine as a sovereign state and may establish full diplomatic ties. While UN membership demands Security Council approval, individual recognitions build international momentum and strengthen Palestine’s diplomatic standing.
Why the UN Context Matters
Countries often time recognition around UN gatherings to signal consensus. Growing recognition by UN members can bolster a two-state framework, isolating extremists and empowering the Palestinian Authority.
Allies Move Toward Recognition
Canada
On July 30, 2025, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced Canada’s intent to recognize Palestine at the UN General Assembly, conditioned on Palestinian Authority reforms. In his statement, Carney said, “Canada has long been committed to a two-state solution – an independent, viable, and sovereign Palestinian state living side by side with the State of Israel in peace and security. For these reasons, Canada intends to recognize the State of Palestine at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025” (Prime Minister’s Office, Canada). He linked the decision to the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and expanding settlements.
United Kingdom
On July 29, 2025, Prime Minister Keir Starmer declared the UK would recognize Palestine in September unless Israel agreed to a ceasefire, halted annexation, and revived direct talks. Starmer called recognition a “necessary lever” for peace (The Guardian).
France
On July 24, 2025, President Emmanuel Macron said France would back recognition in September, reaffirming Europe’s role in advancing a viable two-state solution amid the Gaza war.
Europe’s Earlier Moves
Spain, Ireland, and Norway recognized Palestine in May 2024, aiming to revive diplomatic momentum after stalled peace efforts.
What Americans Are Saying, by the Numbers
Recognition and the Two-State Solution
Support for recognition aligns with a desire for two homelands living side by side in security. Recognition by more states could strengthen moderate voices within Palestinian politics and apply pressure on Israel to negotiate.
“Excessive” Response in Gaza
The share calling Israel’s campaign “excessive” rose from 53% in February 2024 to 59% today, reflecting concern over civilian harm, access blockages for aid convoys, and mounting casualties.
Action on Gaza Hunger
Sixty-five percent want U.S. intervention to prevent starvation in Gaza, though 41% of Republicans oppose new aid commitments—illustrating a partisan divide on humanitarian intervention.
Counterarguments and Policy Stakes
Israel warns that premature recognition rewards Hamas, could derail hostage negotiations, and embolden spoilers. U.S. officials stress the need for robust security guarantees, a reformed Palestinian Authority, and anti-diversion measures for aid.
The Politics at Home
Lawmakers face stronger public support for recognition and aid, especially among younger and Democratic voters. Shifts in opinion may embolden congressional efforts to attach conditions or funding for Palestinian governance and humanitarian programs.
Quick Facts for Context
Definition
State recognition is a formal diplomatic act by governments, often leading to embassies and mutual exchanges.
Poll Topline
58% favor recognition; 59% say Israel’s Gaza response is excessive; 65% want U.S. action on starvation (Reuters/Ipsos, Aug. 2025).
Europe Recognition
By May 2025, 147 UN members had recognized Palestine, including Spain, Ireland, Norway, with Canada, the UK, and France preparing their declarations.
What Happens Next
Allied recognition at the UNGA, expanded humanitarian corridors for Gaza, and a renewed push for a political track with security guarantees, governance reform, and settlement freezes will shape the coming months.
American public opinion is shifting toward recognizing Palestinian statehood and demanding stronger humanitarian action. As key allies move in September, U.S. leaders face a choice on timing, conditions, and coordination versus inaction. For those who care about peace and human rights, now is the time to recommit to relief efforts, diplomatic engagement, and a serious two-state pathway. Share this article, return for updates, and join the conversation.
