Hamas urges international community to fulfill promise of Palestinian statehood

Tehran: Senior Hamas official Khaled Qaddoumi has called on the international community to honor its longstanding commitment to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, emphasizing the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and sovereignty.

Speaking to Chinese media during an interview in Tehran, Qaddoumi condemned what he described as global inaction and double standards regarding Palestine’s right to self-defense. “The international community has promised for decades to support the creation of a Palestinian state. It is time to fulfill that promise,” he said.

Qaddoumi also insisted that only Palestinians should determine their internal affairs, stating, “No external power should interfere in the decisions or leadership of the Palestinian people.”

The call from Hamas comes amid renewed diplomatic efforts to broker peace in the region. U.S. President Donald Trump recently announced a proposed ceasefire plan for Gaza, though details remain unclear and reactions have been mixed across international actors.

In Europe, momentum for Palestinian recognition appears to be growing. The United Kingdom, under a new wave of leadership, has officially recognized the State of Palestine. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy reaffirmed support for a two-state solution, saying, “The horrific war in Gaza must end; the hostages should be released. We need a two-state solution — the Palestinian cause is a legitimate cause.”

Echoing this sentiment, British Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy added, “Palestinians should be granted equal rights, freedom, and peace.”