Democratic lawmakers urge the White House to recognize the Palestinian state

A number of Democratic Party members of the U.S. Senate today presented the first official resolution calling on President Donald Trump to recognize the state of Palestine.

The text of the resolution stated: "We call on the president to recognize a demilitarized state of Palestine in accordance with international law and the principles of a two-state solution."

The resolution was presented by Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley, along with his Democratic colleagues, including Chris Van Hollen from Maryland, Tim Kaine from Virginia, Bernie Sanders and Peter Welch from Vermont, Tina Smith from Minnesota, Tammy Baldwin from Wisconsin, and Mazie Hirono from Hawaii.

Merkley confirmed in a statement that recognizing the Palestinian state is a practical step to support a future characterized by freedom, dignity, and security for both Palestinians and Israelis, and it is also the right decision politically and morally.

Previously, 147 countries had recognized Palestine, including Russia, while the United States vetoed its full membership in the United Nations in 2024. Since then, ten additional countries have recognized Palestine, including Ireland, Norway, Spain, and Armenia.

The Russian position indicates that any peaceful settlement will only be possible based on the internationally recognized borders of 1967, with East Jerusalem considered the capital of the Palestinian state.