Sir Keir Starmer announces formal recognition of Palestinian state

The UK now formally recognises the state of Palestine following pressure from the US and the families of hostages held by Hamas.

Sir Keir Starmer confirmed the move after concluding the situation has deteriorated since he urged Israel to change course over the summer.

In a statement, Starmer said the move is part of a process to bring about an end to the conflict in Gaza and help promote a lasting peace between Israel and the Palestinians.

Alongside the continued military offensive and humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the UK Government is alarmed at plans to accelerate Israeli settlements in the West Bank, something which ministers fear will kill off any hope of a two-state solution.

The UK is not alone in recognising a Palestinian state. More than 140 countries have already taken that step and more are expected to do so at the U.N. General Assembly this week, including Australia, Canada and France.

Sir Keir said in July he would recognise Palestine ahead of the gathering of world leaders at the UN General Assembly (UNGA) next week if the situation did not improve.

Deputy prime minister David Lammy, who will represent the UK at UNGA, said: “It’s important to state that the recognition of a Palestinian state, it is a consequence of the serious expansion that we’re seeing in the West Bank, the settler violence that we’re seeing in the West Bank and the intention and indications that we’re seeing to build, for example, the E1 development that would run a coach and horses through the possibility of a two-state solution.”

Sir Keir and his ministers have sought to stress that recognition of a Palestinian state is not a reward for Hamas, saying it can have no role in the future governance of Gaza and have stepped up demands for the release of hostages.

It is expected the Government will ratchet up sanctions on Hamas in due course.

During his state visit to the UK, US President Donald Trump said he has “a disagreement with the Prime Minister” about recognition.

A group of families of hostages taken in the October 7 attack warned that recognition could hamper efforts to release them.

In an open letter to Sir Keir, they said: “Your regrettable announcement of the UK’s intention to recognise a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly has dramatically complicated efforts to bring home our loved ones.

“Hamas has already celebrated the UK’s decision as a victory and reneged on a ceasefire deal.

“We write to you with a simple plea – do not take this step until our loved ones are home and in our arms.”