UK PM Starmer Meets Israeli, Palestinian Leaders Ahead Palestine Recognition

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has engaged in high-level diplomatic efforts amid the Gaza conflict, meeting with both Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas in London. Starmer condemned the suffering in Gaza and called for urgent action, including an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages held by Hamas, and a substantial increase in humanitarian aid. During his talks with Abbas, Starmer pledged that the UK would recognize a Palestinian state at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly if Israel fails to take substantive steps to address the humanitarian crisis and pursue a sustainable peace. Both leaders agreed there should be no role for Hamas in the future governance of Palestine, and Abbas emphasized the importance of reforming the Palestinian Authority as part of peace efforts. The UK government has ruled out genocide allegations against Israel despite rising international concerns, and Starmer's meetings underscore the UK's balancing act between condemning violence and seeking a long-term political solution. These diplomatic moves come against a backdrop of ongoing violence, including recent terror attacks in Jerusalem, highlighting the urgency and complexity of resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.