British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has said the United Kingdom will formally recognise a Palestinian state in September unless Israel takes urgent steps to improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza and re-engage with the two-state solution.
Speaking on Tuesday, Starmer said the UK “can no longer watch children starve while diplomatic paralysis persists.”
He added: “We are prepared to take decisive action. If Israel does not act, the UK will recognise the State of Palestine at the UN General Assembly in September.”
Starmer laid out conditions that Israel must meet to avoid the move in support of Palestinian state. These include allowing unfettered humanitarian access to Gaza, halting further annexation of West Bank territory, committing to a full ceasefire, and engaging in renewed peace talks.
“We must see a clear shift – not rhetoric, but real steps,” Starmer said. “This is not about rewarding violence. It is about restoring hope, dignity and justice.”
The British Prime Minister said the recognition would be part of a broader push to restart the peace process.
He also emphasized that recognition would not depend on Israeli or Palestinian approval. “No side holds a veto over the legitimate rights of the other,” he said.
The UK is also demanding that Hamas release all Israeli hostages, disarm completely, accept a ceasefire, and relinquish any role in governing Gaza.
Starmer warned that any future Palestinian leadership must be committed to peaceful coexistence with Israel.
The move comes as images of malnourished children and widespread hunger in Gaza continue to spark global outrage. Aid agencies have described the situation as catastrophic, with many warning that famine is imminent unless access improves immediately.
An Israeli government spokesperson responded: “This is effectively a reward for terrorism. It will damage efforts to bring our people home.”
The UK’s planned recognition follows similar steps taken by countries like Spain, Ireland and Norway earlier in 2025. Diplomats say France and Germany are also under pressure to reconsider their positions amid mounting public concern.
Despite expected diplomatic fallout, Starmer insisted the UK would not be swayed. “The world is watching,” he said. “We must stand on the side of humanity and international law.”
..With Agency Report
