UK to Recognise Palestine in September Unless Israel Acts

Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Tuesday that the United Kingdom will formally recognise the State of Palestine in September unless Israel takes significant actions to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This decision, described by Starmer as part of a strategy for “lasting peace,” follows emergency discussions held with the UK Cabinet regarding the escalating situation in the besieged region.

According to a report from AFP, Starmer indicated that the recognition of Palestinian statehood would proceed if the Israeli government does not respond to key conditions set by London. These conditions include ending “the appalling situation in Gaza,” agreeing to a ceasefire, ensuring there will be no annexation in the West Bank, and committing to a long-term peace process aimed at achieving a two-state solution.

In a statement at Downing Street, Starmer emphasized, “I have always said that we will recognise a Palestinian state as a contribution to a proper peace process at the moment of maximum impact for the two-state solution. With that solution now under threat, this is the moment to act.”

The UK’s potential recognition of Palestine aligns with similar intentions expressed by French President Emmanuel Macron, who announced last week that France would formally recognise a Palestinian state during the upcoming UN General Assembly. If both nations proceed with this recognition, they would become the first G7 countries to officially endorse Palestinian statehood, a move that has already faced significant backlash from both Israel and the United States.

During a press conference on Monday, Donald Trump, the former President of the United States, appeared to express support for Starmer’s approach, stating, “I don’t mind him (Starmer) taking a position.” However, Trump later refuted claims that he and Starmer discussed the UK’s plans, asserting, “We never did discuss it,” and criticized the recognition of Palestine as potentially rewarding the militant group Hamas.

Starmer outlined specific demands for Hamas, including the immediate release of all hostages taken during their attacks on October 7, 2023, adherence to a ceasefire, disarmament, and a commitment to not participate in the governance of Gaza. He stated that London would evaluate the actions of both parties in September and added, “No one should have a veto over our decision.”

The UK leader faces increasing pressure from both domestic and international fronts to formally recognise a Palestinian state, especially as the humanitarian situation in Gaza deteriorates. Recently, over 220 British lawmakers from nine different parties, including members of the Labour Party, signed a letter urging Starmer to take decisive action. The commitment to recognising Palestine was also a component of the Labour Party’s election manifesto, promoting a two-state solution that ensures both a secure Israel and a viable Palestinian state.

Starmer’s office announced that the UK has initiated its first aid airdrops into Gaza, where UN agencies have warned that the territory, home to over two million people, is on the brink of famine. The UK government reported that the airdrops, valued at approximately £500,000, began landing on Tuesday, delivering essential supplies.

“The Palestinian people have endured terrible suffering now in Gaza because of a catastrophic failure of aid. We see starving babies, children too weak to stand,” Starmer said in a televised address. He concluded with a stark message: “The suffering must end.”