David Lammy will inform MPs on Monday that the UK still plans to recognise a Palestinian state in the near future, as Israel has not demonstrated compliance with the government’s stipulations.
The foreign secretary will state in a parliamentary address that officials will soon conduct a formal review to determine whether Israel has met the conditions outlined by Prime Minister Keir Starmer last month.
However, amid the Israeli government’s continued hardening of its stance toward Gaza and the West Bank, Lammy will confirm that Britain remains on track to recognise Palestine.
A UK official said: “We will evaluate all aspects relevant to recognition. But based on current circumstances, we are preparing for recognition later this month.”
Starmer previously stated in August that the UK would recognise Palestine ahead of the UN General Assembly, beginning 9 September, unless Israel fulfilled a set of prerequisites. These included meaningful efforts to end the conflict in Gaza, agreeing to a ceasefire, and refraining from annexing parts of the West Bank.
Instead of moving toward meeting these conditions, however, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has appeared to take further steps in violation of them.
Reports indicated on Sunday that Israel was weighing annexation in the West Bank if countries such as France and the UK proceeded with recognising Palestine. While Israeli officials confirmed the topic was discussed at Netanyahu’s cabinet meeting, they did not specify details regarding timing or location.
UK officials have slightly over a week to finalise their assessment of Israel’s position. Senior government sources suggest the timing of British recognition is influenced less by this review and more by diplomatic considerations, particularly the desire to coordinate with France.
Lammy emphasised on Sunday that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza—where experts recently declared famine conditions—is a "human-made disaster," exacerbated by Israel’s restrictions on aid.
“The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with famine in Gaza City and women and children experiencing the worst of it,” the foreign secretary stated.
“The UK is making every effort to improve conditions, but we stress that aid will only be effective if Israel facilitates its safe and secure delivery to civilians in desperate need.”
The government announced an additional £3m in funding for midwives and emergency medical supplies for mothers in Gaza. However, officials noted that this assistance would only reach those requiring it if Israel permitted broader humanitarian access to the region.
Lammy added: “This support can only achieve its full potential if the Israeli government allows it. Israel must protect civilians, including medical personnel and infrastructure, and ensure the delivery of vital supplies to Gaza.”
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