LONDON (AP) — In a significant political move, the United Kingdom is poised to recognize a Palestinian state in September, contingent upon Israel's agreement to a ceasefire in Gaza, the introduction of humanitarian aid by the United Nations, and other essential measures aimed at achieving long-term peace. This announcement was made by Prime Minister Keir Starmer during a press conference on Tuesday, reflecting the increasing pressure he faces domestically as distressing images of hunger in Gaza resonate with the British public.
In response to the escalating humanitarian crisis, Starmer convened a rare summer Cabinet meeting to deliberate on the situation in Gaza. This meeting followed a discussion he had with President Donald Trump earlier in the week in Scotland, where Trump expressed that he was not opposed to Starmer “taking a position” regarding Palestinian statehood. Starmer emphasized that the UK’s recognition of a Palestinian state would occur before the upcoming United Nations General Assembly, unless significant actions are taken by the Israeli government to alleviate the dire conditions in Gaza.
During his statement, Starmer outlined that Israel must agree to a ceasefire and commit to a long-term, sustainable peace plan that revives the prospect of a two-state solution. He stressed the importance of allowing the UN to resume the supply of humanitarian aid and reiterated that there must be no annexations in the West Bank. Furthermore, Starmer called for Hamas to release all hostages, agree to a ceasefire, disarm, and accept that they will not participate in the governance of Gaza.
Starmer declared in a televised address that his government will evaluate in September “how far the parties have met these steps” before making a conclusive decision on the recognition of Palestine. Historically, the UK has supported the concept of an independent Palestinian state existing alongside Israel, but has maintained that such recognition should be part of a negotiated solution to the ongoing conflict. However, Starmer articulated that the willingness to proceed with recognition stems from the diminishing prospects of a viable two-state solution.
As the political landscape shifts, pressure is mounting on the UK government to formally recognize Palestinian statehood. This urgency has been amplified since French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France would become the first major Western nation to recognize a Palestinian state in September. Over 250 members of the 650-strong House of Commons have signed a letter urging the UK government to take similar action. Currently, more than 140 countries recognize a Palestinian state, including several European nations.
Macron's announcement positions France as the first Group of Seven (G7) country and the largest nation in Europe to undertake this step. In response to the UK's potential recognition of Palestine, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot expressed his support on social media, stating, "The United Kingdom is joining the momentum created by France for the recognition of the state of Palestine.” This growing international dialogue around Palestinian statehood signifies a pivotal moment in global politics, as nations reassess their positions in light of the ongoing conflict.
