Speaking Thursday, Prime Minister Montenegro stated the government's intention to “promote consultations with the president and the political parties represented in parliament” in order to evaluate recognising a Palestinian state. The decision may be finalized in time for the upcoming United Nations General Assembly session in September. Montenegro emphasized that Portugal prefers a common EU stance before making a unilateral move.

This approach contrasts with neighbouring Spain, which—alongside Ireland and Norway—officially recognized Palestinian statehood in May 2024. These countries have urged the rest of the EU to follow suit.

While about 144 of the 193 UN member states already recognise Palestine, recognition remains limited within the European Union. Among EU members, support has mainly come from former Eastern Bloc nations, as well as Sweden and Cyprus.

Global Momentum Grows For Recognition

Recent weeks have seen increased international momentum for Palestinian recognition. French President Emmanuel Macron declared that France would move ahead with recognition, making it the first major Western power to do so. Following Macron’s statement, both the United Kingdom and Canada announced they are considering similar steps.

The rising calls for recognition come against the backdrop of worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza, as Israel continues its military campaign against Hamas. The international outcry over starvation and widespread devastation has added pressure on Western governments to reassess their positions.

The U.N. General Assembly had already granted Palestine non-member state observer status in 2012, a move viewed as de facto recognition. Portugal's potential shift would add weight to the broader Western shift on the issue, even as it continues to consult internally and with European allies.