UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced today that the United Kingdom will recognize Palestinian statehood ahead of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in September, provided specific conditions are met by the Israeli government.
The decision, outlined during a cabinet meeting and detailed in a subsequent news conference, is part of an eight-part peace plan aimed at advancing a two-state solution.
According to a written handout from the cabinet meeting, Starmer specified that recognition hinges on Israel taking substantive steps to address the crisis in Gaza, including reaching a ceasefire, halting any annexation plans in the West Bank, and committing to a long-term peace process that delivers a two-state solution.
Unless the Israeli government takes these steps, we will move forward with recognition, Starmer said, emphasizing that no single party would have a veto over the decision.
Starmer also reiterated the UK’s stance on Hamas, stating there is no equivalence between Israel and the group.
He demanded that Hamas release all hostages, agree to a ceasefire, disarm, and accept no role in Gaza’s governance.
The Prime Minister committed to assessing progress on these conditions before UNGA, ensuring a balanced approach to the decision.
During the news conference, Starmer described the UK’s goal as achieving a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state.
He noted that this objective is under unprecedented pressure due to the intolerable situation in Gaza and the diminishing prospects for a two-state solution.
The very possibility of a two-state solution is reducing, he warned, underscoring the urgency of the announcement.
Responding to questions about the timing and impact of the decision, Starmer explained that the move is driven by the worsening conditions in Gaza and the need to ensure aid access.
He framed the recognition as a strategic step to change the conditions on the ground and support broader peace efforts.
When pressed on why recognition is conditional, Starmer emphasized the government’s priority to secure tangible progress, including hostage releases and unhindered aid delivery.
This is intended to further that cause, he said, expressing concern that the two-state solution feels “further away today than it has for many years.
The announcement marks a significant shift in UK policy, aligning with Starmer’s commitment to contribute to a peace process at a moment of maximum impact.
