Starmer calls for recognition of Palestinian state
Photo: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer (Getty Images)
The United Kingdom is working on a plan to establish peace in the Gaza Strip, with one of its key elements being the recognition of an independent Palestinian state.
This was announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, according to his official statement.
He noted that, together with the UK’s closest allies, he is working on a roadmap to peace in the Middle Eastern enclave, focusing on practical solutions that "will make a real difference to the lives of those that are suffering in this war."
According to the prime minister, recognizing Palestinian statehood should be one of those steps.
"I am unequivocal about that. But it must be part of a wider plan which ultimately results in a two-state solution and lasting security for Palestinians and Israelis," Starmer stated.
Recognition of Palestine by European countries
On Thursday, July 24, French President Emmanuel Macron did not rule out the possibility that France could recognize an independent Palestinian state during the autumn session of the UN General Assembly.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sharply criticized France’s intentions, while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also condemned the idea in emotional terms.
According to media reports, the British government and Macron are allegedly pressuring Starmer to move forward with recognizing Palestinian statehood as well.
One British minister said the government does plan to recognize Palestine, though no specific timeline has been given.
