On Sunday afternoon, Sir Keir Starmer is anticipated to make a statement announcing the UK’s acceptance of a Palestinian state. In July, the prime minister declared that the UK would change its stance unless Israel agreed to a number of demands, such as a truce in the Gaza Strip and a commitment to a long-term peace process that would result in a Palestinian state coexisting with Israel.
Since the beginning of the conflict, which began after Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostage, the Israeli government has denied this. The Israeli government, several Conservatives, and the relatives of hostages held in Gaza have all harshly criticised the PM’s action.
Prior to this, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that acknowledging a Palestinian state “rewards terror. After several governments stated that recognition should occur as part of a peace process and at a time when it will have the most impact, this marks a significant shift in UK foreign policy.
Ministers contend, however, that maintaining the possibility of a lasting peace was morally required. Attempts to find a lasting settlement to the Israel-Palestine conflict, let alone a ceasefire in Gaza, have failed. Israel’s recent airstrike on a Hamas negotiating team in Qatar provoked widespread indignation.
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