UK to Recognize Palestinian State, Starmer Announces Shift in Foreign Policy
Prime Minister Keir Starmer will recognize a Palestinian state unless Israel meets ceasefire and peace conditions, marking a major change in UK foreign policy.
Sir Keir Starmer will on Sunday afternoon confirm the UK’s recognition of a Palestinian state, a major shift contingent on Israel agreeing to a ceasefire in Gaza and committing to a sustainable two-state peace process.
Ministers argue this move is morally necessary amid reports of starvation and violence in Gaza and the expansion of illegal settlements in the West Bank. Justice Secretary David Lammy cited the controversial E1 project as evidence that new settlements threaten a viable Palestinian state.
The decision has drawn criticism from the Israeli government, hostage families and some Conservative MPs. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned it “rewards terror”, while families of hostages called on the UK to wait for the release of the remaining captives before taking action.
Last week, a UN commission concluded that Israel’s actions in Gaza amounted to genocide, a claim Israel strongly rejects. Meanwhile, other countries, including France, Canada and Australia, are preparing similar recognition as world leaders meet at the UN General Assembly.
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas welcomed the move during talks with Sir Keir, agreeing that Hamas would have no role in future governance.
By recognizing a Palestinian state now, the UK aims to revive the prospects for a two-state solution and apply pressure for a lasting peace.
This topic was reported by BBC News.
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