Shockwaves as UK Moves to Recognise Palestinian State

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has declared that Britain will formally recognise the State of Palestine in September unless Israel takes decisive action in Gaza, including agreeing to a ceasefire and committing to a long-term peace process.

The move, which could mark a turning point in Middle East diplomacy, comes as Starmer recalled his cabinet from summer recess for urgent discussions on the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

According to Downing Street, Starmer informed his ministers that the UK would recognise Palestine unless Israel addresses several critical conditions: ending the humanitarian disaster in Gaza, halting annexation in the West Bank, agreeing to a ceasefire, and committing to a viable two-state solution.

“I have always said we will recognise a Palestinian state when it has the maximum impact in securing a two-state solution,” Starmer said during a televised address.

“With that solution now under threat, this is the moment to act.”

Pressure Builds from Allies and MPs

French President Emmanuel Macron recently announced that France would also recognise Palestine during the UN General Assembly in September, placing further international pressure on Israel.

Starmer’s move, aligned with Macron’s, drew sharp criticism from both Israel and the United States.

Nonetheless, Starmer reportedly presented his roadmap for peace to U.S. President Donald Trump during a meeting in Scotland.

Trump, speaking during a lengthy press conference, gave what appeared to be tacit approval, saying, “I don’t mind him [Starmer] taking a position.”

Demands on Hamas

In addition to pressuring Israel, Starmer issued a stern warning to Hamas, demanding that the militant group release all Israeli hostages, agree to a ceasefire, disarm, and remove itself from governance in Gaza.

“The suffering in Gaza is unacceptable,” Starmer said.

“We see starving babies and children too weak to stand. The suffering must end.”

UK Delivers First Airdrop to Gaza

As part of its humanitarian response, the UK government has carried out its first airdrop of aid into Gaza. The shipment included roughly £500,000 worth of lifesaving supplies.

UN agencies have warned that more than two million Palestinians in Gaza face famine without urgent international aid.

Growing Political Pressure

At home, Starmer faces mounting calls from within his own Labour Party to act.

Over 220 lawmakers from nine political parties signed a letter last week urging the UK government to officially recognise Palestine.

The recognition pledge was also a central part of Labour’s election-winning manifesto, which endorsed a two-state solution: a secure Israel alongside a viable Palestinian state.

Starmer emphasized that his government would evaluate the situation in September to determine whether Israel and Hamas had taken meaningful steps toward peace.

“No one should have a veto over our decision,” he said.

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