PL deputy leader and MEP Alex Agius Saliba called on Malta to recognise Palestine as a state.

“After Trump declared that he wants to kick the Palestinians out of Gaza, it is more important than ever for Malta to send a strong message and recognise the Palestinian state,” Agius Saliba said.

Prime Minister Robert Abela has repeatedly said that Malta intends to recognise Palestine as a state in the near future but only when “circumstances are right”.

In a statement to Lovin Malta, the Palestinian ambassador to Malta Fadi Hanania urged Malta to recognise Palestine in light of Trump’s suggestion that the US could occupy the Gaza Strip indefinitely and resettle Palestinians elsewhere.

Hanania stressed that Gaza is an “inseparable and integral part” of the Palestinian state and that any attempt to alter its status by force constitutes a violation of international law.

“These plans serve only to entrench the Israeli occupation, colonial settlement, and the illegal seizure of Palestinian land by force—a blatant violation of international law and binding United Nations resolutions, including UN Security Council Resolution 2334,” he said.

“Such actions not only undermine any prospect for a just and lasting peace but also threaten to plunge the region into further instability and conflict.”

“Rather than advocating for a new Nakba, the international community must direct its efforts towards securing an immediate and sustainable ceasefire, ensuring the complete withdrawal of Israeli occupation, and supporting the Palestinian people’s resilience in their homeland.”

Should Malta recognise Palestine as a state?