UK to formally recognise Palestine as a state

London-The UK government is preparing to formally recognise Palestine as a sovereign state, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is expected to announce. In July, Starmer gave Israel a set of conditions to fulfil — including committing to a ceasefire, allowing humanitarian aid, refraining from annexation of the West Bank, and laying groundwork for a long-term peace — warning that failure to meet them would prompt recognition.

What led to this decision

Israel has not met the conditions set by the UK.

The situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate: there is no ceasefire; famine has been declared in Gaza City; and Israeli military operations are expanding.

A recent UN commission of inquiry has concluded that Israel’s actions in Gaza amount to genocide, a claim Israel strongly denies.

International response and context

With recognition, the UK joins the ranks of 147 UN member states that already recognise Palestine.

Countries including France, Australia and Canada have hinted they may follow suit during the upcoming UN General Assembly in New York.

The move has drawn sharp criticism from Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Starmer of rewarding Hamas’s “terrorism” and punishing its victims.

Domestic reactions

Family members of some of the 48 hostages still held by Hamas and allied groups have pleaded with the UK government not to recognise Palestine until their loved ones are returned.

Downing Street is understood to be considering additional sanctions on Hamas. The demands include: immediate release of hostages; acceptance of a ceasefire; no role for Hamas in governing Gaza; and its full disarmament.

Possible implications

Israel is reportedly assessing how to respond to the UK’s decision, but no firm reaction has been decided.

The announcement is timed ahead of the UN General Assembly where global pressure on Israel is expected to intensify.