The UK government still plans to recognize a Palestinian state in September, a move that Foreign Secretary David Lammy will announce to MPs.1 This decision is contingent on a set of conditions laid out by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, which include Israel taking substantive steps to end the war in Gaza, agreeing to a ceasefire, and committing not to annex parts of the West Bank.2
Conditions for Recognition
The UK’s path to recognizing a Palestinian state is tied to Israel’s actions on the ground.3 The British Foreign Office has a short window to complete a formal assessment of whether Israel has met the conditions set by Starmer.4 However, officials have indicated that Israel’s government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has moved in the opposite direction.5 Israel has reportedly discussed annexing parts of the West Bank in response to countries like the UK and France moving toward recognizing a Palestinian state.6
The UK’s decision is being influenced by its desire to act in concert with France and other European allies, with diplomatic timing playing a key role in the process.7 More than 140 countries already recognize Palestine, and the UK and France would be the first G7 nations to do so.8 This potential move signals a major shift in British foreign policy and a growing international consensus that a two-state solution is the only viable path to a lasting peace.
The Man-Made Catastrophe in Gaza
In addition to its stance on statehood, the UK government is also vocal about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.10 Foreign Secretary David Lammy has described the situation as a “man-made catastrophe,” directly attributing it to Israel’s refusal to allow sufficient aid into the enclave.11 The UK announced an additional £3 million in funding for midwives and medical supplies for new mothers in Gaza, but emphasized that this aid can only have an impact if Israel facilitates its safe and secure delivery.12 The UK has called on Israel to protect healthcare workers and infrastructure, and to enable the delivery of life-saving supplies, highlighting that it is Israel’s responsibility to ensure humanitarian access.13
The UK’s position reflects a growing frustration among Western nations with the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the stalled peace process.14 By conditioning its recognition of a Palestinian state on Israel’s actions and openly criticizing its handling of humanitarian aid, the UK is taking a firm diplomatic stand.
This video provides additional context to the UK’s decision to recognize a Palestinian state and the conditions that were put in place. UK will recognise Palestinian state in September unless Israel meets conditions, says PM
