Keir Starmer is set to announce today that the United Kingdom will officially recognize the statehood of Palestine. The Prime Minister is expected to deliver this statement on Sunday, following his earlier commitment in July to do so if the situation in Gaza did not show improvement.
Recent developments have led Downing Street to conclude that the conditions in Gaza have deteriorated significantly, with distressing images of violence, hunger, and hardship becoming unbearable. The formal recognition of Palestinian statehood to the United Nations will be carried out by Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper and Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy on Monday.
In a previous demand made in July, Mr. Starmer insisted that Hamas release all hostages, agree to a ceasefire, disarm, and renounce any involvement in Gaza’s governance. These demands have reportedly remained unchanged.
Contrary to speculations, it was clarified that the delay in the announcement was not related to Donald Trump’s state visit. Mr. Starmer emphasized that Hamas, being a recognized terrorist organization, should have no role in Palestine’s future governance.
Regarding the recognition decision, Mr. Starmer highlighted that the timing was independent of any state visits and was discussed with respect and mutual understanding.