British PM Starmer, Israeli President Herzog Clash Over Gaza, Palestinian State Plans

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Israeli President Isaac Herzog held a tense and 'tough' meeting at Downing Street amid escalating conflict in Gaza and mounting domestic pressure on the UK government. Starmer condemned Israel's recent military actions, including a strike in Doha targeting Hamas leadership, which he described as unacceptable and a violation of sovereignty, while urging Israel to allow more humanitarian aid into Gaza. Herzog denied allegations of famine in Gaza, blamed Hamas for civilian casualties, and invited Starmer to join a fact-finding mission in Israel to assess the humanitarian situation. Both leaders agreed on the threat posed by Hamas and Iran but diverged notably on how to proceed, particularly regarding Britain's plans to recognize a Palestinian state, which Herzog warned could harm peace efforts and hostages' chances. The meeting drew criticism from Labour MPs and the Scottish Greens, who called for a tougher stance on Israel, accusing the government of being too conciliatory. Despite the disagreements, Herzog emphasized that the discussion was between allies and reflective of democratic debate on a complex geopolitical issue.