LONDON (AP) — The U.K. plans to recognize a Palestinian state this September unless Israel makes significant changes, including a ceasefire in Gaza. Prime Minister Keir Starmer made this announcement during a rare summer Cabinet meeting focused on the ongoing crisis.
Starmer emphasized that Britain will support Palestinian statehood before the U.N. General Assembly. He outlined key conditions: Israel needs to halt hostilities, confirm no annexation in the West Bank, and engage in a genuine peace process aimed at a two-state solution.
On the other side, Starmer also remarked that Hamas must release hostages, agree to a ceasefire, and commit to disarmament. He indicated that in September, the U.K. will review how both parties respond to these conditions before deciding on recognition.
Historically, the U.K. has advocated for an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel. This push for formal recognition is growing, especially after French President Emmanuel Macron announced France would officially recognize Palestine in September.
Currently, over 250 members of the House of Commons support this move. Starmer reiterated that despite the conditions, the U.K. believes that “statehood is the inalienable right of the Palestinian people.”
Recent surveys show that public opinion in the U.K. is shifting towards supporting Palestinian statehood. A poll conducted last month indicated that nearly 60% of the respondents favored recognizing Palestine, reflecting changing sentiments among the electorate.
This evolving stance highlights the urgency of the conflict and the international call for peace. It will be interesting to see how these developments unfold in September as the U.K. prepares to make its decision. For further context on this issue, you can visit Al Jazeera.
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