Is Palestine a Country? — Status and Recognition

Verdict

Palestine is recognized as a state by 146 UN members and holds UN observer state status, but does not have full control over its claimed territory.

The State of Palestine declared independence in 1988 and is recognized by 146 of the 193 UN member states. In 2012, the United Nations General Assembly upgraded Palestine's status to "non-member observer state" — the same status held by Vatican City. Palestine claims the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip as its territory, based on the 1967 borders. However, Israel controls or occupies much of this territory. The Palestinian Authority administers parts of the West Bank, while Hamas controls Gaza. The United States, Israel, and several other Western countries do not recognize Palestine as a state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Palestine a country?
Palestine is recognized as a state by 146 of 193 UN member states and holds non-member observer state status at the United Nations — the same status as Vatican City. However, it does not exercise full sovereignty over its claimed territory.
Is Palestine in the United Nations?
Palestine is not a full UN member state. In 2012, the UN General Assembly voted to grant Palestine "non-member observer state" status (resolution 67/19, 138 votes in favor). This is the same status held by Vatican City.
What countries do not recognize Palestine?
The United States, Israel, Canada, and many Western European countries do not officially recognize the State of Palestine. However, most countries in the Global South do recognize it.
What is the capital of Palestine?
Palestinians claim East Jerusalem as the capital of the State of Palestine. Tel Aviv-based Israel controls East Jerusalem and does not recognize this claim. Most embassies of countries that recognize Palestine are located in Ramallah.

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