Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced that the UK will recognise the state of Palestine in September unless Israel takes “substantive steps” to end the “appalling situation in Gaza”. The statement came after a Cabinet meeting recalled from summer recess to discuss the worsening humanitarian crisis in the territory, where the United Nations has warned of mounting famine.
A Downing Street readout said Sir Keir told ministers that “now was the right time to move this position” on the two-state solution, citing the “increasingly intolerable situation in Gaza” and the “diminishing prospect of a peace process”. The UK will recognise Palestine before the UN General Assembly in September unless Israel reaches a ceasefire, ensures no annexation in the West Bank, and commits to a long-term peace process.
Speaking from Downing Street, the Prime Minister said the Government will “make an assessment in September on how far the parties have met these steps”. He insisted that no party “should have a veto over our decision”. The move follows mounting pressure from over 250 cross-party MPs who signed a letter calling for immediate recognition of Palestine.
Sir Keir emphasised that the UK is focused on getting aid into Gaza and securing hostage releases. He said the British public is “revolted” by scenes of starvation and that at least 500 trucks of aid must enter Gaza daily. The UK is participating in airdrops and working with allies, including the US, France, and Germany, on an international plan to alleviate the crisis.
The Prime Minister discussed the plan with US President Donald Trump on Monday, who acknowledged “real starvation” in Gaza. Israel has announced a temporary suspension of fighting in three areas for 10 hours daily and opened secure aid routes, but aid agencies say these measures are insufficient to address the rising hunger.
