London: Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the United Kingdom now “formally recognises the State of Palestine”, calling the move necessary “to revive the hope of peace for the Palestinians and Israelis, and a two-state solution.”
Starmer made the declaration in a video message shared on social media, stating that recognition is intended to reinvigorate efforts toward peace.
“Today, to revive the hope of peace for the Palestinians and Israelis, and a two state solution, the United Kingdom formally recognises the State of Palestine.” said on X
This decision aligns the UK with other countries including Canada, Australia and Portugal, which have also moved to recognise Palestine ahead of the UN General Assembly.
‘Israel’ and the United States have pushed back against the shift, warning recognition could risk undermining peace negotiations.
Meanwhile, Palestinian leaders have welcomed the announcement.