Dear Editor,

The recent push by some international actors to recognise a Palestinian State warrants careful scrutiny, particularly post-October 7, 2023.

While the aspiration for Palestinian sovereignty is understandable, declaring recognition prematurely — especially amidst ongoing conflict — risks undermining regional stability and long-term peace prospects. Such a move may inadvertently promote and reward terrorism, diminish diplomatic efforts, and bolster extremist factions like Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ).

Jamaica must carefully consider its position and avoid joining this push. Instead of rushing to a symbolic declaration, Jamaica should continue to be a voice for peace, dialogue, and practical steps towards reconciliation. This includes support for initiatives like the Abraham Accords, which have normalised relations between Israel and several of its neighbours. These efforts, focused on practical steps towards reconciliation, offer a more promising path to lasting peace than premature declarations of statehood.

Firstly, I believe that recognising a Palestinian State without clear borders, a functioning Government, or consensus among Palestinian factions lends legitimacy to groups committed to violence, extremist Islamist ideology, and the destruction of the State of Israel. Current Palestinian leadership, notably the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), operates under a non-democratic framework that has not held elections in well over a decade, raising questions about its legitimacy and representativeness. The absence of an agreed-upon State structure means that “Palestine” remains a politicised concept rather than a defined, viable nation-State.

Furthermore, such recognition sends a troubling message: Violence and terrorism can be rewarded with international legitimacy. Groups like Hamas and PIJ have repeatedly engaged in attacks against Israeli civilians, and policies like the PLO’s “pay-for-slay” — which incentivises terrorism — continue to undermine peace efforts. Recognition could embolden these factions, harden their stance, and diminish incentives for moderation.

Recent developments underscore this concern. For instance, following French President Emmanuel Macron’s announcement of France’s intention to recognise Palestine in September 2025, Hamas withdrew from active hostage negotiations, signalling that diplomatic talks are less valued by terrorist entities when they perceive increased legitimacy for their cause. Such actions indicate that recognition may harden terrorist groups rather than disarm or moderate them.

The most promising path towards peace remains clear: Hamas must surrender, disarm, and release all hostages. This would create a conducive environment for negotiations and confidence-building measures. Instead of rushing towards recognition, the international community should support diplomatic efforts, encourage Palestinian leaders to establish democratic governance, and focus on tangible steps towards coexistence.

In my opinion, recognising a Palestinian State at this time risks rewarding violence, undermining diplomacy, and perpetuating instability. True peace will only be achievable when all parties commit to sincere negotiations, grounded in mutual recognition of rights and responsibilities rather than symbolic gestures that may exacerbate existing divisions.

Francesca Tavares

francescatavares@yahoo.com