London, United Kingdom – Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced Britain will formally recognize a Palestinian state during September’s United Nations General Assembly unless Israel agrees to an immediate Gaza ceasefire and commits to long-term peace negotiations.
The ultimatum, delivered on Monday, marks a significant shift in UK foreign policy, aligning with 139 nations that already recognize Palestinian statehood. France made a similar commitment last week ahead of the UN session.
Starmer’s conditions require Israel to take “substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza,” including halting military operations and engaging in credible peace talks. The move comes as Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry reported over 60,000 Palestinian deaths since Israel’s offensive began following Hamas’ October 7 attacks.
A UN-backed food security assessment warns “the worst-case scenario of famine is currently playing out” in the besieged territory, though Israel denies restricting aid, claiming “no starvation exists.” Journalists remain barred from independent Gaza reporting.
The potential UK recognition could reshape Middle East diplomacy, increasing pressure on Israel amid growing international condemnation of the war’s humanitarian toll. Analysts suggest the September timeline allows space for last-minute negotiations before the UN meeting.
Palestinian officials welcomed the development as “long overdue,” while Israeli leaders condemned it as “rewarding terrorism.” The US remains noncommittal, urging both sides toward a negotiated two-state solution.
With the deadline set, all eyes turn to whether Israel will adjust its military strategy to avert another major diplomatic setback after Spain, Norway and Ireland’s recent recognitions of Palestinian statehood.
