The UK is set to formally recognise Palestine as a state, it is understood. Sir Keir Starmer is expected to announce the move on Sunday, following his July statement that the government would act unless Israel met certain conditions.
Prime Minister Sets Conditions
Starmer had called on Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to take substantive steps to end the “appalling situation in Gaza,” including agreeing to a ceasefire, committing to long-term peace, allowing UN aid to resume, and refraining from annexing the West Bank.
Israel Rejects UK Position
The Israeli foreign ministry strongly rejected the UK’s stance. Netanyahu claimed that “Starmer rewards Hamas’s monstrous terrorism and punishes its victims,” dismissing the proposed recognition.
Gaza Situation Worsens
No ceasefire has been reached, and conditions in Gaza have deteriorated sharply. A famine has been declared in Gaza City, coinciding with an expansion of Israeli military operations.
Major Ground Offensive
Israel has launched a major ground offensive aimed at seizing all of Gaza City and dismantling Hamas. The operation has prompted widespread international condemnation.
UK Officials Condemn Offensive
UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper described Israel’s military actions as “utterly reckless and appalling,” reflecting growing concern over civilian casualties in Gaza.
UN Accusations of Genocide
Earlier this month, a UN commission of inquiry concluded that Israel had committed genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. Israel rejected the report as “distorted and false.”
UK Joins Global Recognition Effort
The UK will join 147 of the 193 UN member states that already recognise Palestine ahead of the UN General Assembly in New York on Monday.
Other Nations Plan Similar Moves
Countries including France, Australia, and Canada have indicated they may follow the UK’s lead at the UN gathering, as part of a broader international effort to pressure Israel.
US Leaders Disagree
During a joint press conference with the prime minister at Chequers on Thursday, Donald Trump said he disagreed with the UK’s recognition of Palestine. Other US politicians have urged the UK and allies to reverse the stance.
Families of Hostages Speak Out
Families of some of the 48 hostages still held by Hamas and other militant groups since 7 October 2023 wrote an open letter to Starmer condemning the decision.
Warning About Hamas Response
The families said Hamas has celebrated the UK’s decision as a victory and has reneged on a ceasefire agreement.
Plea to Delay Recognition
“We write to you with a simple plea — do not take this step until our loved ones are home and in our arms,” the letter said, urging caution in the recognition process.
UK Considers Further Measures
The UK government is understood to be considering additional sanctions on Hamas, aiming to increase pressure on the militant group.
Demands on Hamas
Officials have demanded that Hamas release all hostages, agree to an immediate ceasefire, renounce any role in governing Gaza, and commit to a lasting peace framework.
