UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to read a statement announcing recognition of Palestinian state. Image: Getty via Express.
(The Post News)– Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to announce on Sunday afternoon that the United Kingdom (UK) will join other European countries in recognizing the Palestinian state.
The move follows Israel’s refusal to commit to a ceasefire in Gaza or to a peace agreement that would lead to a two-state solution. In July, the British Prime Minister warned it would make a significant move by September if Israel failed to comply.
What Would UK Recognition of Palestine as a State Mean?
The UK’s recognition is significant because, as one of the biggest Western powers, the move signals a symbolic, strong “moral commitment” to Palestine. If enough Western powers agree, this could lead to policy changes that place Palestine in a stronger position internationally.
Associate Professor at the University College London, Dr. Julie Norman, explained that this could look like “an opening of a [Palestinian] embassy in [London],” rather than an immediate change. The announcement, coming while 20 hostages remain in Gaza, has been met with criticism from their families and from Conservatives, who warn it would complicate negotiations and serve to “reward terrorism.”
According to the BBC, one of the families has said, “Hamas has already celebrated the UK’s decision as a victory and reneged on a ceasefire deal.” The U.S. President also advised against the move during his visit to Windsor Palace last week.
The United Kingdom is the second Western power to make such an announcement after France. Other European countries, including Portugal, Belgium, and Sweden, are among the 147 nations, about 75% of the United Nations’ member states, that already recognize Palestine as a state.
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