In a landmark shift in foreign policy, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the United Kingdom intends to formally recognise the State of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025 but only if Israel does not meet a series of critical conditions designed to end the crisis in Gaza and reinvigorate the two‑state solution
Background & Conditions
During an emergency Cabinet meeting, Starmer outlined that the UK’s recognition will proceed unless Israel:
- Agrees to a ceasefire in Gaza
- Resumes allowing UN humanitarian access targeting at least 500 aid trucks per day
- Commits explicitly to no annexation of the West Bank
- Demonstrates progress toward a sustainable two‑state peace roadmap
In parallel, the UK demanded that Hamas release all hostages, disarm, and refrain from governing Gaza
Why Now?
The timing follows France’s recent pledge to recognise Palestine at the UN in September, which appears to have influenced London’s decision Domestically, Starmer faced significant pressure: more than 250 MPs across multiple parties urged rapid recognition, and senior cabinet figures shared urgent calls for action Humanitarian conditions in Gaza have deteriorated sharply, with UN warnings highlighting famine and over 60,000 deaths amid insufficient aid access
Reaction from Israel & Allies
Israel strongly rejected the UK’s announcement. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the policy as a reward to Hamas, warning it undermines peace efforts The Israeli foreign ministry echoed this view, calling the move “a reward for Hamas” and harmful to ceasefire negotiations Former U.S. President Donald Trump, speaking from a return leg to the U.S., also expressed concern that the decision could be seen as legitimising terrorism
Significance & Implications
- This marks a rare instance where the UK ties diplomatic recognition to tangible actions aimed at ending wartime conditions and reviving peace talks.
- Recognition could contribute to revitalising the two‑state solution at a crucial moment, if Israel fails to meet the outlined benchmarks.
- It aligns the UK with shifting European sentiment as seen in France, Spain, Norway, Belgium, and others toward proactive recognition of Palestinian statehood
What’s Next
By September 2025, Starmer’s government will assess whether Israel has complied with the demands.
If not, official recognition of Palestine is expected to occur at the upcoming UN General Assembly sessionThe UK is also reportedly coordinating with European partners to develop a coherent peace framework and monitor humanitarian channels into Gaza
