In light of its delay, Lovin Malta reached out to the Office of the Prime Minister that assured that Abela is committed to recognising Palestine.

“The UN conference was scheduled for today, but it has now been postponed. It is not the Maltese government that decides when the conference convenes,” the spokesperson said.

“However, Malta remains firmly committed to recognising a Palestinian state. The Maltese Government maintains its commitment to recognising the Palestinian state, once the appropriate circumstances are in place.”

This conference is aimed at advancing global efforts towards achieving a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. It will consist of eight thematic roundtables, with the goal of delivering concrete outcomes rather than just a reaffirmation of principles.

However, Abela’s initial commitment to recognising Palestine dates back to March 2024, when Malta signed a joint declaration with Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia in support of recognition.

Since then, Abela has delayed the move, stating that Malta is waiting for the “right conditions” – though these conditions have never been clearly defined. His recent statements, however, suggest that such conditions may now be nearing.

This comes as a growing number of EU member states adopt a firmer stance against Israel’s military campaign, particularly condemning the tightening of the humanitarian blockade three months ago.