The UK, led by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, is set to recognize a Palestinian state unless Israel takes significant action to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and agrees to a ceasefire, amidst severe political pressure domestically and internationally.
UK Threatens Palestinian State Recognition Over Israeli Action
UK Threatens Palestinian State Recognition Over Israeli Action
Sir Keir Starmer's ultimatum for Israel could reshape UK-Palestinian relations by September.
The UK plans to officially acknowledge a Palestinian state in September unless Israel makes "significant moves" to address the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza, according to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Starmer highlighted that this includes not only establishing a ceasefire but also committing to a sustainable peace process and ensuring UN-aided relief can be facilitated.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has condemned this potential recognition, claiming it would provide support to Hamas's actions. Previously, the UK had indicated that state recognition should align with broader peace efforts, but growing calls from members within Starmer's party, as well as international counterparts like France, have pushed for more immediate action.
During a news briefing following an emergency cabinet meeting, Starmer expressed concern over the escalating crisis in Gaza, asserting that there is a diminishing chance for a viable two-state solution. He emphasized the necessity for diplomatic moves that promote safety for both Israel and a sovereign Palestinian state.
Starmer outlined specific expectations from Israel, urging the government to commit against future land annexations in the West Bank. Conversely, he demanded that Hamas must release hostages, initiate a ceasefire, and disarm itself from any governing role in Gaza.
Netanyahu responded strongly, raising alarms about the dangers of a state bordering Israel that he claims could threaten security and peace in the region. He warned that appeasing what he termed "jihadist terrorism" would have dire repercussions for the UK.
In a mixed reception to the UK’s announcement, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey welcomed the measure as a milestone but advocated for immediate recognition and stronger actions against Israel’s military conduct. Over 255 MPs have rallied behind a letter urging the government to recognize a Palestinian state, emphasizing humanitarian concerns over political maneuvering.
Starmer's remarks came after discussions with French and German leaders on creating a path towards a two-state solution, although German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated no plans were in place for immediate recognition. While most countries, including Spain and Ireland, support Palestinian statehood, critics caution that recognition might serve as little more than a symbolic act without firm infrastructure for governance.
As Starmer addressed the situation at a UN conference in New York, the UK's Foreign Secretary David Lammy highlighted ongoing aid contributions to Gaza and called for unhindered access for humanitarian support. Meanwhile, Israeli claims of unconditional aid delivery contradict the desperate conditions reported by various UN agencies, who attribute the hardships in Gaza to Israeli oversight of humanitarian supply entry.
With pressure mounting inside the UK and across Europe, all eyes will be on the developments leading to the UN General Assembly in September, as calls for the recognition of a Palestinian state gain significant momentum.
