Watch: ‘We Need Recognition Now’ – Palestinian Ambassador Tells Robert Abela
Palestinian Ambassador Fadi Hanania spoke at a demonstration in Valletta earlier today telling Prime Minister Robert Abela that now is the right time to recognise Palestine.
“Yes Mr Prime Minister, there is no better time to recognise the state of Palestine,” he said in front of a crowd of protesters waving Palestinian flags and chanting “Free Palestine”.
Hanania said that while the Palestinian community appreciates what Abela has done for their people, they “need recognition now”.
“We appreciate your statement to end the starvation in Gaza but the attacks have to end. It’s not only about starvation let the people live freely,” Hanania continued.
He urged Malta to call on Israel to stop the attacks on Gaza and open the borders for humanitarian aid.
Israel had blocked food, fuel, medicine and all other supplies from entering Gaza for nearly three months, worsening a humanitarian crisis for 2.1 million Palestinians there.
Israel claims Hamas is diverting aid, but the United Nations and humanitarian organisations say there is no substantial evidence of this. The UN has rejected Israel’s proposed plan to control the distribution of aid, arguing that it weaponises food, breaches humanitarian principles, and is unlikely to be effective.
In recent days, Prime Minister Robert Abela has hinted that Malta could recognise Palestine next month. However, his initial commitment dates back to March 2024, when Malta signed a joint declaration with Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia in support of recognition.
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