French President Emmanuel Macron has announced that France will become the first major Western power to recognise a Palestinian state, intensifying pressure on British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to follow suit. The surprise declaration came as the leaders of Britain, France and Germany issued a joint statement demanding Israel allow unrestricted aid into Gaza, describing the humanitarian situation as a “catastrophe”.
Macron’s move has exposed divisions within Labour, with Health Secretary Wes Streeting calling for recognition “while there’s still a state of Palestine left to recognise”. Over 220 MPs from several parties have signed a letter urging Starmer to act, arguing that recognition would give substance to long-standing support for a two-state solution.
Germany, however, has said it has no immediate plans to recognise a Palestinian state, viewing it as a concluding step in negotiations rather than an initial one. Berlin has sharpened its criticism of Israel’s military actions and is “prepared to increase the pressure” if humanitarian access does not improve, but remains cautious.
Starmer said recognition must be part of a broader plan leading to a two-state solution and lasting security. He condemned the captivity of hostages, the denial of aid, and Israel’s “disproportionate” escalation. Britain has already halted some arms sales to Israel and sanctioned far-right ministers, but faces pressure to do more while balancing relations with the US, which has denounced France’s decision.
