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In a recent statement, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced that the UK would recognize a Palestinian state in September unless Israel takes significant steps to address the dire situation in Gaza. These steps include agreeing to a ceasefire, allowing the United Nations to resume aid, and committing to a sustainable peace that revives the prospect of a two-state solution. The UK government had previously advocated for recognition within the context of a peace process with maximum impact. However, mounting pressure, both internally and externally, has pushed for a quicker response.
Sir Keir’s declaration follows a similar announcement by France, which revealed its intention to officially recognize a Palestinian state in September, becoming the first G7 country to do so. The decision was motivated by the distressing conditions in Gaza and the diminishing hope for a two-state solution. The UK’s goal of a secure, sovereign Palestinian state alongside Israel is facing unprecedented challenges, prompting the need for immediate action to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and ensure the delivery of aid.
The UK’s recognition of a Palestinian state hinges on Israel meeting specific conditions, such as embracing a ceasefire, endorsing a long-term peace plan, reinitiating aid from the UN, and refraining from annexations in the West Bank. Additionally, Hamas is urged to release hostages, commit to a ceasefire, disarm, and relinquish any role in governing Gaza. However, Israel criticized the timing of the UK’s position shift, labeling it a reward for Hamas and warning against jeopardizing ceasefire efforts and hostage release frameworks.
The announcement comes after discussions between Sir Keir and leaders from France and Germany, focusing on sustainable pathways towards a two-state solution. While most countries recognize a Palestinian state, with recent additions like Spain, Ireland, and Norway, questions remain regarding the effectiveness of recognition without addressing leadership and territory issues. The situation in Gaza has been described as “man-made mass starvation” by UN agencies, primarily attributed to Israeli restrictions on supplies, a claim refuted by Israel, which denies any starvation and emphasizes unrestricted aid deliveries
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