The United Kingdom will recognize the State of Palestine by September, according to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, unless Israel takes decisive action to stop what he called the “appalling situation” in Gaza. “We will recognize a Palestinian state as a contribution to a proper peace process, at the moment of maximum impact for the two-state solution,” Starmer said during an emergency cabinet meeting in London.
At the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in September, he reaffirmed that the UK will back Palestinian statehood until Israel consents to a ceasefire and shows a commitment to lasting peace.
The prime minister made the declaration in response to mounting public indignation over the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, with Starmer stating that pictures of the region’s malnourished citizens have “revolted” the British public.
The declaration was quickly rejected by Israel’s foreign ministry, which described it as a “reward for Hamas” and said it would jeopardize attempts to negotiate a truce and the release of captives.
Since French President Emmanuel Macron said in September that France will become the first G7 country to recognize a Palestinian state, Starmer has been under increasing pressure from inside his Labour Party to adopt a more assertive position on the issue.
The UK has “joined the momentum created by France” for recognition, according to the Foreign Minister of France, who praised the UK’s stance. Although he stressed that Palestinian statehood should not be conditional and urged for consequences against Israel if the violence persists, Scottish First Minister John Swinney also supported the UK’s intention.
According to Keir Starmer, the decision was made because of the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and the dwindling likelihood of a two-state solution. He stated, “This announcement is intended to improve the situation on the ground; ensuring aid reaches its destination and reviving hope for peace.”
Echoing the prime minister’s statements at the UN, Foreign Secretary David Lammy cautioned that the opportunity for a two-state solution is fast closing and urged Israel to halt its military operation in Gaza.
Lammy told the UN that “supporting Palestinian statehood and supporting Israel’s security do not contradict each other.”
The majority of European countries have not yet recognized the State of Palestine, although Spain, Ireland, and Norway did so last year.
