ALBAWABA- UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has informed his government that Britain will formally recognize the State of Palestine by September unless Israel takes tangible steps to end the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and commit to the peace process.
According to Reuters, the move is part of a renewed push to preserve the two-state solution and pressure Israel to halt further annexation in the West Bank.
“Our support for Israel’s security remains firm,” Starmer stated, “but Israel must ensure there is no annexation of Palestinian land and must commit to a real peace process. Recognition of a Palestinian state is not just symbolic—it is essential for securing a just and lasting solution.”
At a recent two-state solution conference in New York, the UK’s Foreign Secretary emphasized London’s role and responsibility in advancing peace. “We will not allow international resolutions on Palestine to remain meaningless,” he said.
“Hamas does not speak for all Palestinians. A ceasefire must be achieved, hostages released, and Israel must make a long-term commitment to peace. Recognition of the State of Palestine can be a real step forward.”
The UK announcement follows France’s recent recognition of Palestine and adds to growing global momentum. With Britain’s recognition, four of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council will have acknowledged Palestinian statehood, leaving only the United States out of alignment, further highlighting Washington’s controversial position as a supposed mediator in the peace process.
Regional and international responses were swift. Saudi Arabia and Jordan welcomed the UK’s move, describing it as a step toward justice and peace. France’s Foreign Ministry also praised the decision, calling it an opportunity to revive peace prospects.
In contrast, Israeli officials strongly condemned the UK’s announcement. A political source told Yediot Aharonot it “sends the wrong message to Hamas and undermines ongoing ceasefire efforts.”
Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid blamed Prime Minister Netanyahu’s policies for isolating Israel diplomatically. “Netanyahu has brought us to a political disaster,” he said.
Former Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman also criticized Netanyahu, calling the UK decision a consequence of Israel’s diplomatic collapse.
On his part, U.S. President Donald Trump distanced himself from the British stance, saying, “We are not in that camp,” and confirmed he had never discussed the UK’s recognition of Palestine. Critics argue that the U.S. remains the last major power backing Israel’s occupation, undermining its credibility as a peace broker and reinforcing accusations of double standards that prolong Palestinian suffering.
The UK’s expected recognition of Palestine marks a significant diplomatic shift, increasing pressure on Israel while signaling growing international impatience with the status quo.
