By M10News Political Desk
Sir Keir Starmer has indicated that the UK may recognise a Palestinian state as part of a broader Middle East peace process, following Emmanuel Macron’s announcement that France will do so in September — a move that drew sharp criticism from former US President Donald Trump.
The Labour leader’s comments come amid renewed international focus on the Israel-Palestine conflict and diplomatic tensions over how Western powers engage with the question of Palestinian statehood.
Macron, speaking late on Thursday, said France would formally recognise Palestine at an upcoming United Nations conference.
That declaration drew a swift and dismissive response from Trump, who told reporters on Friday: “What he says doesn’t matter. He’s a good guy, but that statement doesn’t carry weight.”
Sir Keir, who has positioned himself as aligned with both US and European allies, echoed the growing momentum for recognition.
In a joint statement with the E3 — the UK, France, and Germany — Starmer said that recognition of a Palestinian state should be a necessary component in achieving peace.
“I am unequivocal about that,” Starmer said. “But it must be part of a wider plan which ultimately results in a two-state solution and lasting security for Palestinians and Israelis.”
His remarks signal a measured but notable shift in tone from the UK government, which has long supported a two-state solution but has stopped short of formal recognition.
The timing of Starmer’s statement is significant, coming just days before his planned meeting with President Trump during the American leader’s visit to Scotland. The two figures have maintained a cordial relationship despite political differences.
The UK’s formal recognition of Palestine would mark a historic shift in foreign policy, particularly given Britain’s colonial-era role in the region and its authorship of the 1917 Balfour Declaration.
Starmer’s statement may also be aimed at satisfying pressure from within his own party. Earlier this week, over 200 MPs signed a cross-party letter calling on the UK to recognise Palestine, citing the need to uphold moral responsibility and international law.
The Labour leader’s comments have already stirred debate within Westminster, with observers watching closely to see how Monday’s Trump-Starmer meeting may influence the UK’s next move on the matter.
Editing by M10News Political Desk | Contact: politics@m10news.com
© 2025 M10News. All rights reserved. Unauthorised reproduction is prohibited
