Keir Starmer is set to declare that the United Kingdom will officially acknowledge the statehood of Palestine. The announcement is expected to be made today, following a commitment made in July to do so if the situation in Gaza did not improve.
Downing Street has come to the view that the situation in Gaza has significantly deteriorated, with distressing images of violence, hunger, and hardship becoming unbearable. The formal recognition to the United Nations will be delivered by Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper and Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy on Monday.
In his previous demands in July, Starmer insisted that Hamas release all hostages, agree to a ceasefire, disarm, and renounce any involvement in the governance of Gaza. These demands remain unchanged.
Contrary to earlier reports, Starmer denied delaying the announcement due to Donald Trump’s state visit. When questioned about whether recognizing Palestine could be seen as rewarding Hamas, Starmer emphasized that Hamas, as a terrorist group, should have no role in governing Palestine.
Regarding the timing of recognition, Starmer clarified that it was unrelated to the state visit, affirming that he had discussed the matter with the president in a respectful manner.