British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the UK is prepared to formally recognize a Palestinian state during the September session of the UN General Assembly — unless Israel takes specific actions to ease conditions for Palestinians and commit to a genuine peace process.
This marks a significant shift in UK foreign policy. While previous British governments supported the idea of Palestinian statehood, they have consistently delayed recognition, claiming the “timing must be right.” Starmer’s announcement sets the first clear deadline and conditions tied to recognition.
The UK’s move follows France, which became the first Western permanent member of the UN Security Council to recognize a Palestinian state last week. This trend highlights Israel’s growing international isolation over its military operations in Gaza, where the death toll has now surpassed 60,000 Palestinians.
Starmer outlined three non-negotiable conditions Israel must meet to avoid the UK’s formal recognition of Palestine:
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Allow greater humanitarian aid access to Gaza
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Make a clear commitment against annexing the West Bank
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Support a long-term peace plan that leads to a two-state solution
“The suffering must end,” Starmer said. “In Gaza, we are seeing starving babies and children too weak to stand — images that will stay with us for a lifetime.”
The Prime Minister recalled his cabinet from summer recess to urgently address the Gaza crisis and work on a new European peace proposal aimed at delivering more aid and political pressure.
Starmer emphasized that no party — including Israel — would have veto power over the UK’s decision in September. This assertive posture reflects growing pressure from within his own Labour Party, where lawmakers are urging recognition of Palestinian statehood as leverage on Israel to de-escalate the humanitarian crisis.
Since becoming PM, Starmer has taken a sharper stance against Israeli leadership. His government has:
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Suspended some arms exports to Israel
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Sanctioned far-right Israeli ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich
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Dropped challenges against ICC arrest warrants for Israeli PM Netanyahu
The announcement comes amid heightened global tensions over Gaza and increasing calls from aid groups warning of famine and mass displacement.
If the UK follows through, it will significantly boost momentum for Palestinian recognition in Europe and pressure other Western allies to reassess their positions.
