Starmer confirms UK recognition of a Palestinian state
Keir Starmer has confirmed that the UK will recognise a Palestinian state in a historic, if largely symbolic, move. The British Prime Minister said the decision aims to revive the hope of peace for both Palestinians and Israelis.
The announcement comes ahead of the UN General Assembly this week, with other nations, including Australia and Canada, making similar moves shortly before Starmer’s statement.
The UK Government has acknowledged that recognising a Palestinian state will neither ease the humanitarian crisis in Gaza nor contribute to the freeing of hostages taken by Hamas. However, the UK believes the move is necessary to safeguard the prospect of a lasting two-state solution to the Middle East conflict—one in which Israel exists alongside a Palestinian state.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu branded the UK’s decision as absurd and described it as a reward for terrorism. In response to this criticism, Starmer emphasised that Hamas is a brutal terrorist organisation and confirmed plans to increase sanctions on the group.
“Our call for a genuine two-state solution is the exact opposite of their hateful vision,” Starmer said.
With the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsening and Israel continuing to expand settlements in the West Bank, Starmer acknowledged that the hope for a two-state solution is fading, but insisted, “we cannot let that light go out.”
“Today we join over 150 countries who recognise a Palestinian state also. A pledge to the Palestinian and Israeli people that there can be a better future,” he added.
In a video message, Starmer declared:
“Today, to revive the hope of peace and a two-state solution, I state clear as Prime Minister of this great country that the United Kingdom formally recognises the State of Palestine. We recognised the State of Israel more than 75 years ago as a homeland for the Jewish people. Today we join over 150 countries who recognise a Palestinian state also. A pledge to the Palestinian and Israeli people that there can be a better future.”
https://www.breakingnews.ie/world/starmer-confirms-uk-recognition-of-a-palestinian-state-1809431.html
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