Britain Ready to Recognize Palestinian State, Pressures Israel for Peace

Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that Britain is prepared to recognize a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly unless Israel takes steps to improve conditions for Palestinians, such as allowing more aid into Gaza and committing to a long-term peace process, triggering a shift in British foreign policy.

In a significant policy shift, Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed on Tuesday that Britain is prepared to recognize a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly this September, applying pressure on Israel to improve living conditions for Palestinians.

This move positions Britain as the second Western power on the U.N. Security Council, after France, to consider such recognition. Israel faces increased isolation over its handling of the conflict with Hamas in Gaza, where humanitarian crises have escalated with a Palestinian death toll surpassing 60,000, amplifying calls for immediate action.

Starmer emphasized that recognition of a Palestinian state would proceed unless Israel allows more aid into Gaza, renounces annexation plans for the West Bank, and commits to a sustainable peace process aimed at achieving a two-state solution. This decision comes amidst growing internal pressure from lawmakers within Starmer's Labour Party and international aid warnings of starvation risks in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies.)