British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has warned that the UK will officially recognize the state of Palestine if Israel fails to ease its offensive in Gaza and allow humanitarian relief into the territory by September.
The announcement, made under mounting political pressure, has triggered a sharp reaction from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who accused the UK of surrendering to “jihadist terrorism.” Netanyahu claimed that such a move could lead to the establishment of a “jihadist state,” posing serious risks to both Israel and Britain.
“Giving in to terrorists never brings peace,” Netanyahu posted on X. “This won’t happen.”
Starmer’s government clarified that it does not envision any role for Hamas in Gaza’s political future and rejected accusations that its position encourages extremist violence. The UK reiterated its commitment to a peaceful resolution through the two-state framework, emphasizing a future where a secure Israel coexists with an independent and viable Palestinian state.
Despite continued resistance from Israeli leadership, including opposition to the two-state concept and expansion of settlements in the West Bank, global support for Palestinian recognition is growing. China, India, and Russia already acknowledge Palestinian statehood, and France last week became the first G7 nation to signal plans to follow. Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Portugal are reportedly weighing similar decisions.
The Gaza conflict reignited in October 2023 when Hamas launched a surprise attack that left roughly 1,200 Israelis dead and dozens taken hostage. Israel responded with an intensive military campaign that, according to Gaza health authorities, has since killed over 59,000 people.
This week, Israeli human rights group B’Tselem accused the Israeli military of committing acts that amount to genocide, citing both the government’s rhetoric and the humanitarian devastation inflicted on Gaza.
