UK Sets New Terms for Recognizing Palestinian State

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that Britain will recognize a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly in September unless Israel undertakes significant steps to end the Gaza crisis, including agreeing to a ceasefire, halting annexation in the West Bank, committing to a two-state solution, and allowing at least 500 aid trucks daily into Gaza. The UK also requires that Hamas release hostages and play no future role in governing Gaza. This marks a major policy shift, aligning Britain with several European nations considering recognition of Palestine, such as France, Norway, Ireland, Spain, and Slovenia. The move follows mounting domestic and international pressure over worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza. Israeli officials have criticized the UK’s plan, warning it could destabilize the region. Starmer emphasized that recognition is intended to support the peace process and that Israel's actions will be assessed before the September UN meeting.