UK Set to Recognise Palestinian State Amid Growing International Pressure

The UK is expected to formally recognise a Palestinian state later today, a move seen as largely symbolic but politically significant. The decision comes despite strong opposition from the United States and Israel, and follows growing frustration over Israel's actions in Gaza and the broader lack of progress toward peace.

Speaking ahead of the announcement, Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy said the move wouldn’t instantly create a Palestinian state, but it was an important step toward keeping the two-state solution alive. “Recognising Palestine is about supporting peace and a long-term resolution,” Lammy said in a Sunday interview, adding that it's wrong to equate the Palestinian people with Hamas.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer had earlier said the UK would move to recognise Palestine if Israel failed to meet certain conditions — including agreeing to a ceasefire in Gaza and allowing humanitarian aid. With those conditions unmet, the UK is now preparing to act. The formal announcement is expected from Starmer later today.

This recognition comes just ahead of the UN General Assembly, where other key nations like France, Canada, and Australia are also reportedly considering similar moves. Over 140 countries have already recognised Palestine, but the UK’s decision is notable given its status as a permanent UN Security Council member and its historic role in the Middle East.

The decision also follows a state visit by US President Donald Trump, who publicly voiced his disagreement with the UK’s plan. "It’s one of our few disagreements," Trump remarked.

Critics, including the US and Israeli government, argue that recognition rewards terrorism and undermines peace efforts. However, Starmer has made clear that Hamas will have no role in any future Palestinian government, and called for the release of hostages taken in the October 7, 2023 attacks.

Historically, the UK played a central role in shaping the modern Middle East, particularly through the 1917 Balfour Declaration. While it supported a Jewish homeland, it also promised to protect the rights of Palestinian people — a promise many argue has not been fulfilled.

UK officials now fear that the two-state solution is slipping away due to continued violence, displacement in Gaza, and Israel’s ongoing expansion of settlements in the West Bank.