UK MPs Urge Starmer to Recognize Palestine Amid Escalating Gaza Crisis
A third of the UK House of Commons has called on Prime Minister Keir Starmer to officially recognize Palestinian statehood, as international pressure mounts on Israel to allow aid into the besieged Gaza Strip. The appeal, signed by MPs from nine political parties, follows French President Emmanuel Macron’s pledge to support Palestinian statehood at the UN General Assembly in September. Both Israel and the United States have criticized Macron’s move, with some arguing it could embolden Hamas.
The letter, published on Friday, urged Starmer and Foreign Secretary David Lammy to grant recognition as part of the UK’s longstanding commitment to a two-state solution. The MPs highlighted the UK’s historical ties to the region and its role on the UN Security Council as significant factors that could influence the situation. The document emphasized that while the UK does not have unilateral power to bring about a free and independent Palestine, its recognition would carry considerable weight due to its global influence.
Despite the growing pressure, Starmer has stopped short of an immediate commitment, stating that recognition of a Palestinian state must be part of a broader plan leading to a two-state solution and lasting security for both Palestinians and Israelis. During a recent phone call with Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, the Prime Minister reiterated his support for a comprehensive approach to the conflict.
Additionally, the three leaders called for a ceasefire and urged Israel to immediately lift restrictions on the flow of aid into Gaza. They also emphasized the need for Hamas to disarm and have no role in the future of the territory. The Kremlin has reaffirmed its longstanding recognition of Palestinian statehood, with Russia continuing to support a two-state solution under international law.
As tensions continue to mount, the UK’s position on the issue remains a focal point of international diplomacy. With over 200 MPs involved in the appeal, the pressure on Starmer to take a firm stance may increase, particularly as the international community watches closely for any developments in the region.