Prime Minister Keir Starmer has declared that the United Kingdom officially recognises Palestine as an independent state, following Israel’s failure to fulfill specific conditions set by the UK government. This announcement was made simultaneously with Canada and Australia, signaling a coordinated international effort.
Starmer expressed on social media that although the vision of a twogaza-vengeance-overreach/” title=”…: When Vengeance Crosses the Line”>-state solution appears increasingly distant, it remains vital to keep hope alive. Earlier this year, the Prime Minister had warned that unless Israel agreed to an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, committed to sustainable peace, and revived negotiations for a two-state framework, the UK would proceed with recognising Palestinian statehood.
However, the UK government now assesses that the situation has deteriorated sharply. The ongoing violence, widespread hunger, and humanitarian crisis in Gaza have reached unacceptable levels. A recent ground offensive in Gaza City and a UN inquiry accusing Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians have intensified global concern.
On September 21, Starmer stated: “To rekindle the prospect of peace for both Palestinians and Israelis, and to support a two-state solution, the United Kingdom formally recognises the State of Palestine.” He emphasized the urgent need to preserve the possibility of coexistence-an Israel that is secure alongside a viable Palestinian state-something currently absent.
He continued, “Everyday citizens on both sides deserve to live free from violence and rebuild their lives in peace. This is the aspiration of the British public.” Starmer also highlighted the ongoing plight of hostages held by Hamas since the brutal attacks of October 7, 2023, describing the suffering of these individuals and their families as deeply painful.
“The immediate release of hostages is imperative,” he asserted, adding that the UK will intensify sanctions against Hamas operatives in the coming weeks. “Let’s be clear: Hamas is a ruthless terrorist group. Our advocacy for a genuine two-state solution stands in direct opposition to their destructive agenda.”
Starmer criticized the escalating Israeli military operations in Gaza, condemning the resulting starvation and devastation as “completely unacceptable.” He called for an end to the bloodshed, describing the UK’s recognition of Palestine as part of a pragmatic strategy to unite stakeholders around a shared vision. This includes reforming the Palestinian Authority and moving from ceasefire to a sustainable two-state resolution.
Shortly before Starmer’s announcement, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed Canada’s recognition of Palestinian statehood, emphasizing a commitment to fostering peace for both Israel and Palestine. Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese echoed this stance, framing the recognition as a coordinated international initiative aimed at reigniting momentum for peace, starting with a ceasefire and the release of hostages.
Starmer underscored that the moment to acknowledge Palestinian statehood has arrived. “The UK recognised Israel over 75 years ago as a homeland for the Jewish people. Today, we join more than 150 nations in recognising Palestine, reaffirming our commitment to a future where both peoples can coexist peacefully.”
He acknowledged the deep emotions this conflict stirs within communities across the UK, noting that it has sometimes fueled division and hatred. “We must reject all forms of hatred and unite in hope for a future marked by peace, the release of hostages, and an end to violence.”
London Mayor Sadiq Khan praised the recognition as a powerful symbol for Palestinians in Gaza, assuring them they are not forgotten amid the ongoing crisis. “Symbolism matters. Families with loved ones in Gaza need to know the world hears their suffering. The situation there amounts to genocide, and voices like ours must amplify their plight.”
In contrast, a spokesperson for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed the UK’s recognition as “absurd,” accusing it of rewarding terrorism. She stated that Hamas does not seek coexistence but rather aims to replace Israel entirely.
0 Comments