Keir Starmer has confirmed that the UK will recognise a Palestinian state in a historic, if largely symbolic, move. The British Prime Minister said the decision was intended to revive hope for peace between the Palestinians and Israelis.
The announcement comes ahead of the UN General Assembly this week, with other nations—including Australia and Canada—making similar recognitions shortly before Starmer’s statement.
The UK Government has acknowledged that recognising a Palestinian state will not ease the humanitarian crisis in Gaza nor directly contribute to the freeing of hostages taken by Hamas. However, the UK believes the move is necessary to safeguard the prospect of a lasting two-state solution to the Middle East conflict, envisioning Israel existing alongside a Palestinian state.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu branded the decision “absurd” and described it as simply a reward for terrorism. In response, Starmer emphasised that Hamas is a brutal terrorist organisation and confirmed plans to increase sanctions on the group.
“Our call for a genuine two-state solution is the exact opposite of their hateful vision,” he said.
With the humanitarian crisis in Gaza escalating and Israel advancing settlements in the West Bank, Starmer acknowledged that the hope of a two-state solution is fading but stressed, “we cannot let that light go out.”
He added, “Today we join over 150 countries who recognise a Palestinian state also—a pledge to the Palestinian and Israeli people that there can be a better future.”
In a video message, Sir Keir Starmer said:
“Today, to revive the hope of peace and a two-state solution, I state clear as Prime Minister of this great country that the United Kingdom formally recognises the State of Palestine. We recognised the State of Israel more than 75 years ago as a homeland for the Jewish people. Today we join over 150 countries who recognise a Palestinian state also. A pledge to the Palestinian and Israeli people that there can be a better future.”
https://www.breakingnews.ie/world/starmer-confirms-uk-recognition-of-a-palestinian-state-1809431.html
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