British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced that the United Kingdom will recognize a Palestinian state in September unless Israel takes significant steps to end the conflict in Gaza and commits to a peace process. This decision follows similar moves by France and increasing pressure from lawmakers within Starmer's own party. Starmer stated that Israel could avoid this recognition by agreeing to a ceasefire, pledging not to annex the West Bank, and engaging in negotiations for a two-state solution. The United Kingdom would become Israel's closest ally to recognize Palestinian statehood, potentially signaling a shift among Western nations. Starmer also emphasized the need for Hamas to release hostages, accept a ceasefire, disarm, and forgo any role in Gaza's future governance.

Original article source: https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/starmer-says-uk-will-recognize-palestinian-state-unless-israel-ends-gaza-war-commits-to-peace-process/
Source Id: 2025-07-790510724