The United Kingdom has formally recognised the state of Palestine, marking a major change in British foreign policy, The Guardian UK reports. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Keir Starmer ahead of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly.
Starmer described the decision as a step to revive the hope of a two-state solution, emphasising that it is symbolic but necessary to demonstrate the UK’s commitment to international justice. “We recognise the State of Israel, more than 75 years ago, as a homeland for the Jewish people. Today we join over 150 countries in recognising a Palestinian state, a pledge to both Palestinian and Israeli people that there can be a better future,” he said.
The prime minister stressed that the recognition does not reward Hamas, which he described as a “brutal terror organisation,” and reaffirmed that Hamas will have no role in governance or security in Palestine. Starmer also reiterated calls for Hamas to release hostages held in Gaza and criticised the ongoing humanitarian crisis caused by the Israeli government’s military operations.
Human rights groups have cautiously welcomed the move. Kristyan Benedict, Amnesty International’s crisis response manager, called recognition “significant” but warned it would be a “hollow gesture” unless accompanied by action to end the blockade of Gaza, dismantle illegal settlements, and uphold Palestinian human rights.
However, the decision has been strongly opposed by the Israeli government. A spokesperson for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the UK’s recognition of Palestine as “absurd and simply a reward for terrorism,” reflecting Israel’s longstanding position against unilateral recognitions outside negotiated peace talks.
The UK’s move follows similar recognitions by Canada and Australia, part of a coordinated effort to support a two-state solution. While France has announced intentions to recognise Palestine formally, other European nations, including Germany and Italy, have indicated they will not follow suit immediately, preferring recognition to be linked to negotiated peace agreements.
Recognition may lead to an upgrade of the Palestinian mission in London to embassy status and could result in restrictions on products from Israeli settlements. Starmer described the step as part of a “practical plan to bring people together behind a common vision” and stressed the UK will continue humanitarian aid efforts, despite challenges in delivering sufficient support to Gaza.
