Malta to recognize Palestine as independent State at UN; Raising Israel’s TensionsMalta’s Prime Minister, Robert Abela, had planned to recognize Palestine in May. Malta joins countries recognizing palestineMalta: Following Britain, Canada, and Australia, Malta will now announce its recognition of Palestine as an independent and sovereign state at the UN General Assembly. Malta's Support and Assistance for GazaMalta's Prime Minister, Robert Abela, had planned to recognize Palestine in May. He warned the leaders of the three countries that recognizing a Palestinian state is tantamount to encouraging terrorism. Netanyahu clarified that no Palestinian state will be established west of the Jordan River.