London: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has made a conditional announcement regarding the recognition of a Palestinian state, stating that such a step must be part of a broader strategy aimed at ensuring lasting peace and security for both Palestinians and Israelis.
According to British and Israeli media, Starmer emphasized on Friday that while he remains firmly committed to recognizing Palestine, the timing and approach must ensure the move has maximum impact in improving the lives of those affected by the conflict.
In remarks reported by The Independent, Starmer said the establishment of a Palestinian state must align with a wider peace framework. He reiterated that a two-state solution is the only viable path to long-term peace and stressed the need for a well-thought-out policy to uplift Palestinian lives.
The Prime Minister also strongly criticized Israel’s ongoing military actions, labeling the blockade of Gaza as indefensible. He condemned the humanitarian crisis, the hostage situation, and the violence by Israeli settlers, calling Israel’s military response disproportionate and unacceptable.
Pressure is mounting on the UK government, as 221 Members of Parliament have already voiced support for Palestinian statehood. The demand for official recognition is rapidly gaining political traction.
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In a letter addressed to Starmer, 220 MPs urged the government to formally recognize Palestine next week. Citing Britain’s historical responsibility and the decades-long parliamentary consensus on a two-state solution, the letter called on the UK to take concrete steps at the international level.
The MPs argued that recognizing Palestine at the United Nations is a moral and political duty, especially given that the House of Commons had already passed a resolution to this effect in 2014. The letter added that working in coordination with international allies to endorse Palestine’s statehood would have significant global implications.