UK Considers Recognizing Palestinian State Amid Gaza Tensions
Prime Minister Keir Starmer of the United Kingdom has announced that the country may recognize a Palestinian state by September unless Israel takes specific actions toward peace in Gaza. The announcement comes as pressure mounts domestically over the humanitarian situation in the region.
During a rare Cabinet meeting held during the summer, Starmer outlined the conditions that Israel must meet to avoid the UK’s planned recognition of Palestinian statehood at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly. These conditions include agreeing to a ceasefire, allowing the United Nations to deliver aid, and committing to a long-term peace that revives the two-state solution prospect.
Starmer stated, “And this includes allowing the UN to restart the supply of aid, and making clear there will be no annexations in the West Bank.”
Despite these demands, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government is not expected to comply, with Israel’s foreign ministry rejecting the UK’s stance. The ministry stated on X, “The shift in the British government’s position at this time… constitutes a reward for Hamas and harms efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and a framework for the release of hostages.”
Starmer also reiterated demands for Hamas to release hostages, cease hostilities, disarm, and acknowledge their exclusion from Gaza’s future governance.
The UK has traditionally supported a two-state solution but has previously linked the recognition of Palestine to a negotiated settlement. However, recent developments, including a similar stance from French President Emmanuel Macron, have increased calls within the UK to act independently.
More than 250 UK lawmakers have signed a letter pushing for the recognition of a Palestinian state, joining over 140 countries that have already done so. France’s decision has made it the first G7 nation to recognize Palestine, potentially influencing other Western powers.
While British recognition would be symbolic, it could amplify diplomatic efforts to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and comes as Starmer has consulted President Donald Trump, who reportedly does not object to the UK’s position.
The UK’s historic involvement as the former governing authority of Palestine and the author of the Balfour Declaration adds a unique dimension to its current stance. Foreign Secretary David Lammy acknowledged this historical context, emphasizing the UK’s unfulfilled promise to protect Palestinian civil and religious rights.
France welcomed the UK’s potential move, with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot noting on X that the UK is aligning with France’s efforts to acknowledge Palestinian statehood.
