UK MPs urge Foreign Office to recognize Palestinian state at UN summit

Labour MPs in the UK are calling on the Foreign Office to recognize Palestinian statehood during an upcoming French-Saudi conference at the UN in June, which is seen as a pivotal moment for international recognition. French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the need for swift action, stating that without it, there may soon be 'no Palestine left to recognize.' The call for recognition is supported by Chris Doyle of the Council on Arab-British Understanding, who noted that acknowledgment by both France and the UK would convey a significant message globally. Although the UK Foreign Office maintains its position to recognize Palestine at an 'appropriate moment,' there is increasing pressure from various political factions and international allies to act sooner. Macron's remarks aimed at fostering a collective recognition of Palestine, alongside calls for Israel's recognition, highlight the complex diplomatic landscape surrounding this issue. The urgency of the situation is underscored by ongoing Israeli policies in the occupied territories, which many fear could make the establishment of a viable Palestinian state increasingly unattainable.