Israel Threatens UK Ties Over Palestine Recognition

Israel has threatened to withdraw defense and intelligence cooperation with the UK if Prime Minister Keir Starmer proceeds with plans to recognize a Palestinian state, a move reportedly planned for September unless Israel changes its policies in Gaza and the West Bank. Israeli officials argue that such recognition would reward terrorism and may lead to a suspension of intelligence sharing that has previously helped prevent attacks in the UK. The UK-Israel partnership is under strain, with both nations depending on each other's military technologies, including Israeli intelligence and British F-35 parts. Starmer has criticized Israel's military escalation in Gaza, calling for a ceasefire, increased humanitarian aid, and progress toward a two-state solution. The international community, including Turkey and the UN, has condemned Israel's plan to take over Gaza City, citing risks of further bloodshed and violations of international law. Palestinian officials accuse Israel of using military operations to carry out ethnic cleansing, while Israel maintains it does not seek long-term governance of Gaza but seeks a security perimeter.