UK's Shift in Policy: Starmer to Announce Recognition of Palestinian State

Fri Sep 26 2025 15:55:26 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a significant shift in foreign policy, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is set to announce the recognition of a Palestinian state on Sunday. The decision, aimed at reviving hopes for a two-state solution, has sparked intense debate across political lines.

Sir Keir Starmer will announce the UK's recognition of a Palestinian state on Sunday, reflecting a pivotal change in British foreign policy. The decision follows a commitment made in July, contingent upon Israel's actions regarding a ceasefire and peace negotiations. The move has drawn a mixed response, with proponents emphasizing the need for humanitarian action, while critics argue it could undermine peace efforts, especially amidst ongoing violence and hostage situations.

Sir Keir Starmer is expected to announce the UK's recognition of a Palestinian state in a statement on Sunday afternoon.

The move comes after the prime minister said in July the UK would shift its position in September unless Israel met conditions including agreeing to a ceasefire in Gaza and committing to a long-term sustainable peace deal that delivers a two-state solution.

This announcement marks a major change in British foreign policy, diverging from previous governments’ stances that recognition should come as part of a peace process and at a time of maximum impact.

The recognition has elicited strong criticism from the Israeli government, hostage families, and some Conservatives. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu previously stated that such a move rewards terror. However, UK ministers argue that there is a moral obligation to act in order to maintain hope for a long-term peace deal.

Government sources have highlighted the deteriorating conditions in Gaza, citing images that document starvation and violence, which the prime minister has described as intolerable. A recent ground operation in Gaza City has resulted in mass displacement, with reports indicating severe humanitarian crises.

Earlier in the week, a United Nations inquiry concluded that Israel has committed acts amounting to genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, a claim Israel has vehemently denied.

UK ministers also pointed to the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, which are considered illegal under international law, as a significant factor influencing the decision to recognize Palestinian statehood.

Justice Secretary David Lammy noted that the recognition stems from the serious expansion observed in the West Bank, citing concerns regarding specific projects that threaten the viability of a two-state solution.

Palestinian Authority president Mahmoud Abbas welcomed the UK's recognition pledge during a recent meeting with Sir Keir, agreeing that Hamas should not play a role in future governance of Palestine.

Meanwhile, opposition from within the UK continues, particularly from Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch, who expressed concerns that recognition without the release of hostages would reward terrorist actions.

Family members of hostages taken by Hamas have also voiced their apprehension, urging the Prime Minister to delay action until the hostages are returned.

As questions arise regarding the timing and implications of the recognition, ministers are also preparing to outline further actions against Hamas in the weeks to come.

This decision aligns the UK with several countries that have recognized Palestinian statehood recently, yet it may further complicate regional diplomacy.

The two-state solution is centered on the establishment of a Palestinian state alongside Israel, with ongoing conflicts affecting the feasibility of this long-sought resolution.