British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has made a significant announcement regarding the recognition of the State of Palestine at the upcoming UN General Assembly scheduled for late September. Starmer stated that the U.K. would proceed with this recognition unless Israel takes meaningful actions to improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza and commits to a renewed peace process with the Palestinians.
This announcement is particularly noteworthy as it follows closely behind a similar commitment made by French President Emmanuel Macron to recognize Palestine during the UN meetings in September. Should both countries follow through on their intentions, the United States would stand as the only permanent member of the UN Security Council that does not recognize a Palestinian state, marking a significant shift in international dynamics.
In response to Starmer's announcement, former President Donald Trump commented that he has no official stance on Starmer's move. He expressed concerns that pressuring Israel at this time could reward Hamas, emphasizing that the U.S. does not align with that view. Trump had a meeting with Starmer prior to this announcement, but he clarified that the topic of Palestine was not discussed during their conversation.
Moreover, Starmer's discussion with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hours before his announcement highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding this issue. Netanyahu, who firmly opposes the establishment of a Palestinian state, responded critically to Starmer's statement, arguing that a jihadist state in Israel today poses a threat to Britain tomorrow.
The broader context reveals a shifting attitude toward Israel, especially within Europe, as international support appears to be waning amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Currently, approximately three-quarters of UN member states already recognize Palestine, with many of those that do not being European nations.
After a recent Cabinet meeting, Starmer reiterated the U.K.'s demand for an immediate ceasefire to halt the violence in Gaza and facilitate humanitarian assistance to prevent starvation. He emphasized the U.K.’s commitment to protecting the viability of the two-state solution, stating, "We are determined to protect the viability of the two-state solution, and so we will recognize the state of Palestine in September before UNGA."
Starmer also indicated that the U.K. could postpone its recognition of Palestine if the Israeli government takes substantial steps to alleviate the dire conditions in Gaza. This includes agreeing to a ceasefire and making clear commitments against annexations in the West Bank.
Looking ahead, Starmer mentioned that the British government would assess the situation prior to the UN General Assembly, ensuring that no single party would have a veto over recognition based on their actions or inactions. Additionally, he outlined a vision for a peace plan for post-war Gaza, which would include transitional governance, security arrangements, the withdrawal of Israeli military presence, the removal of Hamas leadership from Gaza, and a resumption of peace talks focused on a two-state solution.
Starmer emphasized the necessity for Hamas to release all hostages, commit to a ceasefire, disarm, and agree to abstain from any role in the governance of Gaza.
The negotiations surrounding a ceasefire and hostage deal have reached a standstill. A delegation from Hamas, including chief negotiator Khalil al-Haia, departed Doha for Turkey as discussions remain stalled. Netanyahu has also engaged with Israeli negotiators, stressing that although efforts to reach a deal continue, Hamas's obstinacy presents a significant challenge.
In Washington, Netanyahu's aides Ron Dermer and Tzachi Hanegbi are currently in discussions with senior White House and State Department officials to evaluate the situation in Gaza and potential next steps. This is an evolving story, and updates will continue as new information becomes available.
