The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) has submitted a letter to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, signed by over 300 Muslim organisations across the UK, demanding the immediate recognition of a Palestinian state and stronger action against ongoing violence in Gaza.
The letter, delivered to 10 Downing Street, calls on the UK government to show what the groups described as “moral leadership” in the face of ongoing civilian killings in Gaza. Signatories include mosques, student societies, charities, and advocacy groups from across the UK.
The demands include:
- Official UK recognition of Palestine, as countries like Spain and Norway have done
- A ceasefire and immediate end to civilian killings
- Safe return of hostages, both Palestinian and Israeli
- Full humanitarian access to Gaza
- An end to UK arms exports and military aid to Israel
Speaking on behalf of the MCB, Secretary General Dr. Wajid Akhter said, “We urge Prime Minister Starmer to act now. The world condemned Russia’s occupation of Ukraine—why remain silent on the occupation of Palestine?”
Dr. Akhter stressed that Britain has a unique opportunity to lead efforts toward peace and justice by recognising Palestine. He warned that failing to do so would be “a missed opportunity to be on the right side of history.”
According to UNICEF, the humanitarian toll in Gaza has been devastating. Since October 2023, over 51,000 people have been killed, including at least 15,000 children. Many more have been injured or displaced, with nearly one million children forced from their homes repeatedly.
While nearly 150 countries worldwide have recognised Palestine, the UK has remained hesitant. On April 29, Foreign Secretary David Lammy signed an agreement with the Palestinian Authority reaffirming support for a two-state solution, but critics argue that this promise falls short of action.
Meanwhile, Israeli settlements continue expanding in the West Bank, and reports of mass civilian deaths in Gaza persist. Advocacy groups are calling on the UK to take a firmer stance and align with international calls for justice.
The pressure continues to mount as more voices across Europe and within Britain demand immediate recognition and humanitarian action.
