The United Kingdom has announced its intention to formally recognise Palestine as an independent state by September, unless Israel takes significant steps to meet specific conditions set by the British government.
Following an emergency cabinet meeting on the ongoing conflict in Gaza, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer made the declaration on Tuesday.
The statement came a day after his meeting with U.S President Donald Trump.
According to Starmer, the UK’s recognition of a Palestinian state will be presented at the United Nations General Assembly in September, should Israel fail to act on key humanitarian and diplomatic concerns.
He stated that the move hinges on “Israel taking substantive steps to end the ‘appalling situation in Gaza’” and agreeing to a ceasefire.
This policy shift places the UK in alignment with growing international support for Palestinian statehood.
Just days ago, French President Emmanuel Macron declared that France would also recognise a Palestinian state in September, potentially becoming the first G7 country to do so.
Last year, Ireland, Spain, and Norway had already taken the step of recognising Palestinian statehood, increasing global pressure on Israel amid the ongoing war in Gaza.
In response, Israel’s foreign ministry issued a sharp rebuke of the UK’s position.
“The shift in the British government’s position at this time, following the French move and internal political pressures, constitutes a reward for Hamas and harms efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and a framework for the release of hostages,” the ministry said.
It further accused Starmer of being influenced by domestic political forces and international trends, saying he was “pandering to his MPs and the French.”
