In a significant announcement, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has declared that the United Kingdom will officially recognize the State of Palestine this September — unless Israel makes “meaningful actions” to resolve the escalating crisis in Gaza.
Palestine recognition will advance if Israel refuses to a ceasefire in Gaza
The announcement followed Starmer’s urgent recall of his cabinet from recess for critical discussions regarding the worsening humanitarian crisis in the besieged area.
Downing Street has stated that Palestine’s recognition will advance if Israel refuses to agree to a ceasefire in Gaza, stops any annexation plans for portions of the West Bank, and engages in a long-term peace process focused on a two-state solution.
“I have consistently stated that we will acknowledge a Palestinian state as a meaningful step towards a genuine peace process at the time of greatest significance for the two-state solution,” Starmer remarked in a TV speech. “Now that this solution is at risk, it’s time to take action.”
France is set to recognise the state of Palestine
The UK’s strategy corresponds with comparable trends in Europe. Just a week ago, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France would officially acknowledge Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September.
If implemented, Britain and France would be the initial G7 nations to make this decision — an action that has already sparked strong backlash from both the United States and Israel.
Authorities in London have emphasized that the recognition initiative is more than mere symbolism; it forms a broader structure for what Starmer referred to as “enduring peace.” The British leader emphasized that acknowledgment would continue only if Israel does not alter its direction.
“The shocking circumstances in Gaza must not persist,” he stated, noting that his administration considers this a vital moment to restore hope for peace in the Middle East.