UK Signals Possible Recognition of Palestinian State by September Absent Israeli Ceasefire Commitment

The United Kingdom may formally recognize a Palestinian state by September if Israel does not agree to a ceasefire in Gaza and take steps toward a long-term peace, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Tuesday. Starmer stated that the UK would support recognition at the United Nations General Assembly unless Israel halts the annexation of the West Bank and commits to reviving prospects for a two-state solution.

"With that solution now under threat, this is the moment to act," Starmer said, emphasizing the need for substantive action to end the conflict. He also urged Hamas to release hostages taken during the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, to agree to a ceasefire, disarm, and refrain from participating in Gaza's future governance.

Israel's Foreign Ministry criticized the UK's announcement, saying the shift in policy "constitutes a reward for Hamas and harms efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and a framework for the release of hostages." The UK and France, which announced a similar intention last week, would be the most prominent Western countries to recognize Palestinian statehood, joining over 140 nations worldwide.

The UK announcement comes after Starmer met with President Trump in Scotland to discuss the Gaza conflict and humanitarian concerns. Trump declined to comment directly on the UK's position, saying his focus was on addressing food shortages in Gaza.