The United Kingdom has officially acknowledged Palestine as a state following Israel’s failure to meet the conditions set by the Government, according to an announcement made by Keir Starmer. The decision, made in conjunction with Canada and Australia, aims to uphold the fading hope of a two-state solution.
Earlier this summer, the UK had signaled its readiness to recognize Palestinian statehood by September if Israel met specific criteria, including an immediate Gaza ceasefire, a commitment to sustainable peace, and the revival of the two-state solution. However, Downing Street has assessed that the situation has significantly deteriorated, with escalating violence, hunger, and suffering deemed unacceptable.
In a statement today, Starmer emphasized the UK’s formal recognition of the State of Palestine as a step towards fostering peace and a viable two-state solution for both Palestinians and Israelis. He underscored the urgency of halting the horrors in the Middle East and working towards peaceful coexistence.
Starmer further expressed concerns about the ongoing conflict, emphasizing the need for immediate action to address the dire situation in Gaza. He highlighted the importance of releasing hostages held by Hamas and reiterated the commitment to pursuing sanctions against Hamas figures.
The Prime Minister condemned Israel’s intensified military actions in Gaza, stressing the urgent need to end the devastation and starvation in the region. He outlined a practical plan aimed at uniting stakeholders and progressing towards a ceasefire in Gaza and eventually achieving a two-state solution.
The move to recognize Palestine was echoed by Canada and Australia, underscoring a coordinated effort to advance a two-state solution. The recognition reflects a longstanding commitment to peace and security for both Israeli and Palestinian populations.
The decision to recognize Palestine has garnered mixed reactions, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissing it as “absurd,” emphasizing the complexities and challenges in the region. However, proponents of the recognition, including the Palestinian Authority representative in the UK, view it as a crucial step towards establishing a sovereign state of Palestine.
The recognition of Palestine by the UK, France, and Canada marks a significant shift, positioning these countries as the first G7 nations to take this step. This move diverges from the stance of the US, particularly under former President Donald Trump, who opposed recognizing Palestine.
Despite differing opinions and challenges, the formal recognition of Palestine by key nations signals a renewed commitment to pursuing a peaceful resolution and fostering stability in the region.