Britain has issued a stark ultimatum to Israel either UK to formally recognise a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly in September unless Israel ceases strikes in Gaza. The UK demands include a permanent ceasefire, unhindered humanitarian aid access, a halt to West Bank annexation, and commitment to a two‑state peace process . British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described Palestinian statehood as an “inalienable right” and called for urgent relief from starvation and conflict .
Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu responded harshly, calling the UK’s bold step a “reward for Hamas’s monstrous terrorism” and warning that a jihadist state on Israel’s border would threaten Britain tomorrow . Israel disputes claims of starvation, saying more than 5,000 aid trucks entered Gaza over two months, and insists it supports humanitarian efforts alongside military operations . Meanwhile, the UN’s Integrated Food Security Phase Classification warns the worst‑case famine is unfolding, with widespread malnutrition, disease, and death
USA President Donald Trump, speaking from the U.S., distanced himself from the UK’s stance, saying he “does not think Hamas should be rewarded” and claimed his administration has no fixed view on recognizing a Palestinian state .
More than 200 British lawmakers across party lines have urged the government to recognise Palestine now, citing moral duty and frustration with UK inaction amid the humanitarian crisis .
France pledged to recognise Palestine at UN gathering in September, aligning with UK moves and raising diplomatic pressure on Israel .
British opposition and human rights groups argue recognition without structural change may be premature. Analysts note PM Starmer conditions his decision on a broader peace framework rather than unilateral action .
This policy shift places the UK and France among the first G7 countries actively tying diplomatic recognition to a ceasefire and peace process. It signals growing frustration over Israel’s conduct in Gaza and adds weight to calls for international accountability.
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