Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister, officially declared the country’s recognition of the state of Palestine in a concerted effort with Australia and Canada to reignite hopes for peace. Starmer emphasized the importance of preserving the potential for peace and a two-state solution amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. He emphasized the necessity of a secure Israel alongside a viable Palestinian state, which are currently lacking.
Various governments, including the UK, Canada, and France, believe that recognizing Palestine is crucial to maintaining the momentum towards a two-state solution. Starmer highlighted the absence of security for both Israel and Palestine, underscoring the significance of acknowledging Palestine to rejuvenate peace prospects.
The decision to recognize Palestine followed the Prime Minister’s promise in July in response to the deteriorating situation in Gaza and ongoing conflicts in the region. Despite criticisms from opponents, Starmer defended the move as a step towards a genuine two-state solution and a counteraction to Hamas’s extremist agenda.
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy acknowledged that the immediate impact of recognizing Palestine may be limited but emphasized its role in sustaining hopes for a future peace settlement. The upgrade in diplomatic relations with Palestine would enable enhanced status and privileges for diplomatic missions, potentially paving the way for full diplomatic relations in the future.
While the UK’s decision aligns with those of France and Canada, it diverges from the stance of the US, with former President Donald Trump expressing disagreement with Starmer’s approach during a joint press conference. The move positions the UK alongside 147 other member states of the United Nations that recognize Palestine.