Hanania called Prime Minister Robert Abela’s declaration “a brave historical announcement” and “a moral and legal obligation on all the countries that believe in the two-state solution.” He argued that the move affirms Palestinians’ right to self-determination, which he said Israel has tried “to wipe off from history” through illegal settlements, the “deployment of more than 1,200 gates separating Palestinian cities and villages,” and the displacement of Gaza’s remaining residents.

“For the past 77 years Palestinians have been living under occupation while pursuing their statehood. 77 years the international community has failed us in having our rights to live in freedom, dignity and independence as all other humans on this earth do,” he added. “Many UN and international resolutions have been adopted regarding the Palestinian cause, but none of them were implemented.”

The ambassador also highlighted Malta’s early calls for a ceasefire in Gaza, its delivery of humanitarian aid and its medical evacuations of many children. “Malta has taken the side of humanity and justice and sent a clear message to Israel to stop the attacks,” he said.

However, he expects Malta to keep pushing to end the genocide in Gaza and to allow humanitarian aid and medical supplies.

“Being a member of the EU, Malta can use its position alongside other countries to try harder to pressure Israel to stop the attacks on Gaza immediately, to stop the annexation of land, and the building of illegal settlements.”

The ambassador placed Malta’s decision in a broader historical arc, recalling that the Palestinian leadership embraced a peaceful path more than three decades ago.

“Palestinians chose the path of peace when Chairman Yasser Arafat declared a Palestinian State in 1988 to live side by side with Israel, and recognised Israel as a state hoping Israel would do the same after the five-year interim agreement in 1995,” Hanania said. “Since then we have been trying to negotiate a peace agreement based on international resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative in order to achieve freedom for our people.”

The recent wave of international recognitions, he added, “will give us new hope and strengthen our position in our pursuit of freedom and independence” as Palestine relies on the international community to stop Israel’s unilateral actions and reinitiate talks.

“Recognition of the State of Palestine paves a way forward for the two state solution acknowledging that peace can be only achieved by negotiations and direct talks, not by tanks and war air crafts.”