The UK is set to officially recognize Palestine this September due to the worsening conditions in Gaza, unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire and commits to a two-state solution for the Middle East.
Keir Starmer’s government has endorsed a plan for regional peace following growing domestic concerns over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and calls to align with France in acknowledging Palestinian statehood.
The prime minister convened his cabinet during their summer recess to approve the decision after discussions with Donald Trump in Scotland earlier this week. The former US president stated he had no objection to the UK adopting its own stance on the matter, even if he would not take the same position.
Starmer emphasized that the deteriorating situation in Gaza and the fading prospects of a two-state solution made it necessary to act now. “The only way to resolve this crisis is through a lasting agreement,” he said after the meeting. “Our aim remains a secure Israel alongside a sovereign Palestinian state, but right now, that goal faces unprecedented challenges.”
He added, “I have always supported recognizing Palestine as part of meaningful peace efforts. With the two-state solution at risk, this is the time to take action.”
The announcement comes as UN experts warn of a deepening famine in Gaza and call for urgent measures, while health authorities report that casualties from Israeli military actions have exceeded 60,000.
In a notable policy shift, Starmer said recognition would proceed ahead of the UN General Assembly in September unless Israel meets conditions outlined in a UK-backed peace plan. These include steps to end the conflict in Gaza, agree to a ceasefire, reject annexation of the West Bank, and engage in long-term peace talks. Starmer had previously spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the proposal.
He also reiterated demands on Hamas, stressing that the group is not comparable to Israel. It must release all captives, disarm, agree to a ceasefire, and accept no role in Gaza’s governance.
“In September, we will evaluate progress, but no party can block our decision,” Starmer said. He planned to consult with international partners later in the day.
The plan follows recent discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on pursuing sustained peace in the region.
Downing Street had previously maintained that further steps required careful consideration.
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