Why are Latin American countries endorsing a Palestinian state?

New York – Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay say they recognize Palestinian independence along pre-1967 borders. What do they hope to accomplish?

In rapid succession, Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay have officially recognized a free and independent Palestinian state, adding an unexpected twist to the U.S.-backed push for Middle East peace. The South American neighbors said that the Palestinian state should be based on the borders of the West Bank and Gaza before Israel took control of the territories in the 1967 Six-Day War. Palestinians welcomed the news, Israel called it "regrettable," and the U.S. said it could be a "counterproductive" distraction from peace negotiations. The diplomatic recognition has no immediate concrete impact — so why are these Latin American governments making the move now? Continue ►