<p>The UK, Canada and Australia became the latest nations to recognise Palestine statehood, while several are going to do the same at the United Nations General Assembly. Israel has called the moves a threat to its existence, while its key ally the US called it “performative.” But the real question is, will anything change on the ground for Palestinians as they reel under the Israeli occupation, entering the third year since the Hamas terror attack of 2023?</p><h2>Palestinian statehood: What’s the status? Who recognises, who is about to do so?</h2><p>A little over 151 of the 193 UN member states have recognised, or are in the process of recognising, the State of Palestine. This means an overwhelming majority of the international community wants to see the formal state of Palestine become a reality.</p><p>The UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal have recently formally recognised Palestine. France intends to formally recognise Palestine during or around the UN General Assembly. European Union member states like Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, and possibly others are expected to follow suit.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-to-revive-hope-for-peace-uk-canada-australia-formally-recognise-state-of-palestine-1758448390402">'To revive hope for peace': UK, Canada, Australia formally recognise State of Palestine amid Israel's Gaza takeover plan</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>But it really does not matter, given that the most important power, the United States, is yet to recognise Palestine, with President Donald Trump saying in his recent UK visit that it is "an area of divergence" for him with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.<br>Japan, South Korea, and some other European countries are also yet to recognise Palestine.</p><h2>Is Palestinian statehood recognition merely a show? What the US means by “performative”</h2><p>The State Department called the Palestinian statehood recognition by some Western countries “performative.” It could very well be right. These recognitions have largely been symbolic, and not backed by accompanying changes in policy.</p><p>There are not many concrete steps that alter power dynamics or outcomes on the ground. Mere statehood recognition without resolving conflicts over territory, security, governance, refugees, and borders does not by itself create a functioning state that changes the Palestinian people’s day-to-day realities.<br>Amid the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, the US is making its priorities clear: release of Israeli hostages, security of Israel, broader peace and stability for the region. Recognition of Palestine, in their view, doesn’t by itself guarantee those things.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestine-welcomes-courageous-decisions-of-uk-canada-and-australia-to-recognise-its-statehood-1758461899754">Palestine welcomes ‘courageous decisions’ of UK, Canada, and Australia to recognise its statehood</a></p><h2>Palestinian statehood: What might be the positive changes? &nbsp;</h2><p>The positive outcomes from the recognition could include some legal, diplomatic, and political advantages. Recognised states can use international bodies like the UN, the International Criminal Court, and treaty regimes with more leverage. It allows diplomacy and specific claims in front of these bodies to be made more explicitly.</p><p>The ability of Palestine to establish formal diplomatic relations, and embassies, is another positive outcome from the recognition. They can enter into treaties, possibly including trade deals and diplomatic exchanges. Palestine would be able to get more foreign aid and cooperation from countries with diplomatic ties.</p><p>The recognition elevates the Palestinian cause, gaining a higher profile in international negotiations. Statehood could help Palestine garner more legitimacy in global public opinion, and it can fight cases in international courts or in global fora more effectively. The recognition can also put greater diplomatic pressure on Israel, including trade sanctions or shifts in international public opinion.<br>Palestine can get international funding and membership in international organisations, like transitioning from the current status as a “non‑member observer state” to a member state of the UN, which comes with certain privileges.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-recognise-palestine-today-despite-israel-slamming-move-as-rewarding-terrorism-was-the-move-delayed-by-trump-visit-1758428851590">UK to recognise Palestine today despite Israel slamming move as 'rewarding terrorism'. Was it delayed by Trump's visit?</a></p><h2>Palestinian statehood and ground realities: What probably won’t change for Palestinians</h2><p>A state’s recognition, by itself, will not ensure any control over territory or borders. The Palestinian Authority, which rules the West Bank, and Hamas, which rules the Gaza Strip, might not have full control over these territories. There are issues to be resolved on East Jerusalem and borders, especially given the ongoing war, and the Israeli settlements in the West Bank, much of it forced and state-backed by Israel.</p><p>Palestine is yet to have a formal military. While theoretically, Palestine could procure arms as a state, it could complicate the already worsening war situation. Israel—though already much more capable and dominant militarily—could seek more arms to defend against a Palestinian state that has a formal army. Israel currently has its forces at border controls and checkpoints. Recognition of Palestine is not going to change any of this overnight.</p><p>Israel still manages the checkpoints, restrictions, settlers, occupation policies, and internal governance.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-no-palestinian-state-will-be-established-netanyahu-vows-to-expand-jewish-settlements-in-west-bank-as-hamas-hails-victory-1758471246164">‘No Palestinian state will be established’: Netanyahu vows to expand Jewish settlements in West Bank as Hamas hails ‘victory’</a></p><h2>Daily life of Palestinians under siege. Will anything change after state recognition?</h2><p>The Gaza war and Israeli occupation of Gaza City are ongoing even as the Palestinian statehood declarations are being made. For people living in Gaza, issues like electricity, water, schooling, taxes, freedom of movement, infrastructure, and health care are not going to change immediately. Israeli occupation, blockades, funding, and administrative capacity will determine how the humanitarian situation evolves, not any diplomatic recognition.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-netanyahu-on-palestinian-recognition-huge-reward-to-terrorism-1758476139316/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-netanyahu-on-palestinian-recognition-huge-reward-to-terrorism-1758476139316/embed</a></p><h2>Contentious issues like Jerusalem and refugees will remain</h2><p>Core contentious issues like Jerusalem and East Jerusalem’s status require longer negotiation or international legal/political enforcement.&nbsp;</p><p>Under the current hostile situations, these are going to take a lot more time. A simple statehood recognition is not going to settle these issues.</p><p>Without those being reinforced, recognition might have more symbolism than practical effect.<br>&nbsp;</p>

More than 150 nations now recognise Palestine or will do so soon. But without US backing, or the Israeli control over land continuing, the move remains mostly symbolic. Daily life for Palestinians under occupation is unlikely to change dramatically. Here is why



The UK, Canada and Australia became the latest nations to recognise Palestine statehood, while several are going to do the same at the United Nations General Assembly. Israel has called the moves a threat to its existence, while its key ally the US called it “performative.” But the real question is, will anything change on the ground for Palestinians as they reel under the Israeli occupation, entering the third year since the Hamas terror attack of 2023? Palestinian statehood: What’s the status? Who recognises, who is about to do so? A little over 151 of the 193 UN member states have recognised, or are in the process of recognising, the State of Palestine. This means an overwhelming majority of the international community wants to see the formal state of Palestine become a reality. The UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal have recently formally recognised Palestine. France intends to formally recognise Palestine during or around the UN General Assembly. European Union member states like Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, and possibly others are expected to follow suit. Also read: 'To revive hope for peace': UK, Canada, Australia formally recognise State of Palestine amid Israel's Gaza takeover plan But it really does not matter, given that the most important power, the United States, is yet to recognise Palestine, with President Donald Trump saying in his recent UK visit that it is "an area of divergence" for him with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Japan, South Korea, and some other European countries are also yet to recognise Palestine. Is Palestinian statehood recognition merely a show? What the US means by “performative” The State Department called the Palestinian statehood recognition by some Western countries “performative.” It could very well be right. These recognitions have largely been symbolic, and not backed by accompanying changes in policy. There are not many concrete steps that alter power dynamics or outcomes on the ground. Mere statehood recognition without resolving conflicts over territory, security, governance, refugees, and borders does not by itself create a functioning state that changes the Palestinian people’s day-to-day realities. Amid the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, the US is making its priorities clear: release of Israeli hostages, security of Israel, broader peace and stability for the region. Recognition of Palestine, in their view, doesn’t by itself guarantee those things. Also read: Palestine welcomes ‘courageous decisions’ of UK, Canada, and Australia to recognise its statehood Palestinian statehood: What might be the positive changes? The positive outcomes from the recognition could include some legal, diplomatic, and political advantages. Recognised states can use international bodies like the UN, the International Criminal Court, and treaty regimes with more leverage. It allows diplomacy and specific claims in front of these bodies to be made more explicitly. The ability of Palestine to establish formal diplomatic relations, and embassies, is another positive outcome from the recognition. They can enter into treaties, possibly including trade deals and diplomatic exchanges. Palestine would be able to get more foreign aid and cooperation from countries with diplomatic ties. The recognition elevates the Palestinian cause, gaining a higher profile in international negotiations. Statehood could help Palestine garner more legitimacy in global public opinion, and it can fight cases in international courts or in global fora more effectively. The recognition can also put greater diplomatic pressure on Israel, including trade sanctions or shifts in international public opinion. Palestine can get international funding and membership in international organisations, like transitioning from the current status as a “non‑member observer state” to a member state of the UN, which comes with certain privileges. Also read: UK to recognise Palestine today despite Israel slamming move as 'rewarding terrorism'. Was it delayed by Trump's visit? Palestinian statehood and ground realities: What probably won’t change for Palestinians A state’s recognition, by itself, will not ensure any control over territory or borders. The Palestinian Authority, which rules the West Bank, and Hamas, which rules the Gaza Strip, might not have full control over these territories. There are issues to be resolved on East Jerusalem and borders, especially given the ongoing war, and the Israeli settlements in the West Bank, much of it forced and state-backed by Israel. Palestine is yet to have a formal military. While theoretically, Palestine could procure arms as a state, it could complicate the already worsening war situation. Israel—though already much more capable and dominant militarily—could seek more arms to defend against a Palestinian state that has a formal army. Israel currently has its forces at border controls and checkpoints. Recognition of Palestine is not going to change any of this overnight. Israel still manages the checkpoints, restrictions, settlers, occupation policies, and internal governance. Also read: ‘No Palestinian state will be established’: Netanyahu vows to expand Jewish settlements in West Bank as Hamas hails ‘victory’ Daily life of Palestinians under siege. Will anything change after state recognition? The Gaza war and Israeli occupation of Gaza City are ongoing even as the Palestinian statehood declarations are being made. For people living in Gaza, issues like electricity, water, schooling, taxes, freedom of movement, infrastructure, and health care are not going to change immediately. Israeli occupation, blockades, funding, and administrative capacity will determine how the humanitarian situation evolves, not any diplomatic recognition. https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-netanyahu-on-palestinian-recognition-huge-reward-to-terrorism-1758476139316/embed Contentious issues like Jerusalem and refugees will remain Core contentious issues like Jerusalem and East Jerusalem’s status require longer negotiation or international legal/political enforcement. Under the current hostile situations, these are going to take a lot more time. A simple statehood recognition is not going to settle these issues. Without those being reinforced, recognition might have more symbolism than practical effect.

<p>More than 150 nations now recognise Palestine or will do so soon. But without US backing, or the Israeli control over land continuing, the move remains mostly symbolic. Daily life for Palestinians under occupation is unlikely to change dramatically. Here is why</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Palestine statehood recognition merely for show? What will change, what might not, for Palestinians on the ground

<p>There is increasing pressure on the UK to recognise the statehood of Palestine, with reports even suggesting that Prime Minister Keir Starmer is likely to do so. If it happens, it would be an act of natural justice, because Britain’s colonial-era actions directly contributed to the creation of Israel, leading to the displacement of Palestinian populations from their land.</p><h2>The Legacy of Empire: Britain's direct role in Palestine and the creation of Israel&nbsp;</h2><p>Between 1920 and 1948, Britain governed Palestine under a League of Nations Mandate following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire. The Mandate system was formally intended to prepare the territory for self-governance. However, Britain embedded within it the Balfour Declaration of 1917 — a statement issued by Foreign Secretary Arthur Balfour promising to support the establishment of a "national home for the Jewish people" in Palestine. The declaration also vaguely stated that “nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish communities,” who at that time formed the overwhelming majority of the population.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-palestinian-state-what-is-the-only-disagreement-trump-had-with-uk-pm-1758216100921">'Palestinian state...': What is the only 'disagreement' Trump had with UK PM</a></p><h2>Palestine and Israel: A demographic re-engineering by Britain for economic reasons</h2><p>Palestinian Arabs comprised over 85 per cent of the population in the early 1920s. Yet, their national aspirations were sidelined as Britain facilitated and legitimised waves of Jewish immigration and land acquisition under the terms of the Mandate. These policies were informed by a range of motives, including post-war diplomacy, geopolitical strategy, and the desire to maintain influence over critical trade routes such as the Suez Canal and emerging oil infrastructure in the Middle East. By 1947, Jewish ownership of land had increased to about 6.6 per cent — up from less than 3 per cent in 1918. Jews became roughly one-third of the total population, mostly concentrated in urban and coastal areas such as Tel Aviv, Haifa, and parts of Jerusalem.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-says-he-disagrees-with-starmer-over-recognising-palestine-1758217841269/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-says-he-disagrees-with-starmer-over-recognising-palestine-1758217841269/embed</a></p><h2>Partition, War, and the ‘Nakba’ exodus: How Israel came into being</h2><p>The 1936–1939 Arab Revolt fiercely challenged British rule and protested the acceleration of Jewish immigration and land dispossession. The British response was brutal and involved the deployment of tens of thousands of troops, mass arrests, and executions. The revolt was eventually crushed. It left the Palestinian national movement weakened. After the Second World War, Britain, now exhausted and facing increasing violence from both Arab and Jewish armed groups, referred the issue of Palestine to the newly formed United Nations.</p><p>In 1947, the UN General Assembly proposed a Partition Plan (Resolution 181), which sought to divide Palestine into two states: a Jewish state covering approximately 56 per cent of the territory, and an Arab state covering about 43 per cent, with Jerusalem placed under international administration. This plan marked the first official two-state framework, though it was deeply contested. At the time, Jews constituted about one-third of the population and owned a small fraction of the land, yet were allocated the larger portion.&nbsp;</p><p>Britain, torn by internal disagreements and wary of taking sides, abstained from the UN vote on the partition.&nbsp;</p><p>By May 1948, Britain fully withdrew its forces, leaving behind a power vacuum and worsening instability.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/israel-s-ministry-of-culture-decides-to-withdraw-funds-for-israeli-oscars-after-a-film-on-palestine-wins-top-award-1758188639708">Israel's Ministry of Culture decides to withdraw funds for 'Israeli Oscars' after a film on Palestine wins top award</a></p><h2>Israel declares independence, wins war, and controls most of Palestinian territory</h2><p>On 14 May 1948, Israel declared independence. The next day, 15 May, neighbouring Arab armies — including Egypt, Jordan (then Transjordan), Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq — launched a military intervention, leading to the first Arab-Israeli war.</p><p>Despite being newly established, Israel was far from defenceless. It inherited a well-organised paramilitary structure, chiefly the Haganah, which was transformed into the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF). Israel also received significant arms shipments from erstwhile Czechoslovakia, and benefited from international fundraising and the support of thousands of Jewish volunteers from abroad, known as Mahal.&nbsp;</p><p>Britain did not support Israel militarily during the war, and maintained an arms embargo on both sides. However, its earlier policies under the Mandate had laid much of the institutional and demographic groundwork that made Israel’s military success possible.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-mahmoud-khalil-us-judge-rules-for-deportation-of-pro-palestinian-activist-to-syria-or-algeria-1758196738933">Who is Mahmoud Khalil? US judge rules for deportation of pro-Palestinian activist to Syria or Algeria</a></p><h2>How Israel managed to control most of Palestine&nbsp;</h2><p>By the end of the war, Israel controlled 78 per cent of historic Palestine, far beyond what had been allocated under the UN plan. This included key cities like Jaffa, Haifa, and Acre.</p><p>More than 750,000 Palestinians were expelled or fled their homes during this period, a mass displacement known as the Nakba — Arabic for “catastrophe”.&nbsp;</p><p>Over 400 Palestinian villages were depopulated and many were deliberately destroyed. During and after the Nakba, large numbers of Palestinian refugees were forced into camps in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, which today constitute the core Palestinian territories.&nbsp;</p><p>These two territories, now governed individually and fragmented by decades of conflict, are separated by around 70 kilometres of Israeli land, as you can see from the map in the picture.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-joins-142-nations-in-backing-un-declaration-votes-for-palestinian-state-1757705925445">India joins 142 nations in backing UN declaration, votes for Palestinian state</a></p><h2>Britain built the imperial geography of Palestine with maps drawn abroad</h2><p>Even today, the effects of Britain’s colonial architecture remain etched into the physical and political geography of the Palestinian question — from the configuration of settlements and roads to the demarcation of borders and land registries.&nbsp;</p><p>Many of the railways, road networks, and administrative boundaries still trace their origins back to maps drawn in London or Geneva.&nbsp;</p><p>These imperial-era lines continue to define the contours of division, dispossession, and control.</p><p>The Nakba was not merely an unintended side effect of conflict. It was the result of a decades-long process of settler colonialism — a political project supported, at various points, both tacitly and overtly by British imperial policy.&nbsp;</p><p>Britain had committed to facilitating the establishment of a Jewish national home while promising to protect the rights of the Arab majority.</p><p>But in practice, this dual obligation produced systemic inequity. Palestinians were excluded from meaningful sovereignty by a system designed to serve imperial and settler interests.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestine-president-abbas-writes-to-pm-modi-seeks-support-on-gaza-ambassador-shawesh-1753208673231">Palestine President Abbas writes to PM Modi, seeks support on Gaza: Ambassador Shawesh</a></p><h2>British recognition of Palestine would be a form of restorative justice</h2><p>As outlined here, Britain bears direct historical responsibility for a colonial process that denied Palestinians the very statehood it now hesitates to acknowledge. This responsibility is not merely rhetorical — it is deeply embedded in decades of policy choices that shaped the dispossession, disempowerment, and displacement of an entire people.</p><p>No amount of warfare is going to solve this problem. Can talks succeed where violence has failed? One side would argue — and international law supports this — that Palestinians have a right to sovereignty, dignity, and territorial integrity. But others argue that recognising Palestinian statehood would be incompatible with Israel’s right to exist and secure its borders — a view that has underpinned decades of political stalemate.</p><p>Yet Britain, the state most historically responsible for the roots of the conflict remains on the sidelines.&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, European allies such as Spain, Ireland, and Norway have already extended formal recognition of Palestine. France, Belgium, Slovenia, and Malta have expressed strong support and are reportedly considering similar steps.</p><h2>Britain’s recognition of Palestine would be the closing of the colonial loop. But will it solve the problem?</h2><p>If it happens, Britain’s recognition of Palestine would be a "full circle" moment in the tumultuous history of the region. It would require the difficult but necessary admission that Britain helped enable one people’s independence while obstructing another’s. Britain cannot undo the past, but recognition would symbolically confront that legacy.&nbsp;</p><p>It would represent a form of justice long delayed — an attempt to restore some measure of balance in a region still shaped by the consequences of imperial borders and colonial betrayals.</p><p>For Britain, recognising Palestine is not merely a symbolic act — it is a moral reckoning long overdue.&nbsp;</p><p>It would not by itself resolve the conflict, but it would affirm the principle that historical injustice cannot be left unaddressed forever: justice, after all, begins with acknowledgement.&nbsp;</p><p>And for Palestinians, that acknowledgement is now more than a century overdue.&nbsp;</p><p>Whether it will lead to peace, or provoke yet another war, is a question no one can answer.&nbsp;</p><p>But without justice, peace will remain a distant dream</p>

If it happens, Britain's recognition of Palestine would be an act of historical justice, acknowledging its colonial-era role in Palestinian displacement and the creation of Israel during the Mandate era. It is essential not to forget the baggage of history that continues to bleed people

There is increasing pressure on the UK to recognise the statehood of Palestine, with reports even suggesting that Prime Minister Keir Starmer is likely to do so. If it happens, it would be an act of natural justice, because Britain’s colonial-era actions directly contributed to the creation of Israel, leading to the displacement of Palestinian populations from their land. The Legacy of Empire: Britain's direct role in Palestine and the creation of Israel Between 1920 and 1948, Britain governed Palestine under a League of Nations Mandate following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire. The Mandate system was formally intended to prepare the territory for self-governance. However, Britain embedded within it the Balfour Declaration of 1917 — a statement issued by Foreign Secretary Arthur Balfour promising to support the establishment of a "national home for the Jewish people" in Palestine. The declaration also vaguely stated that “nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish communities,” who at that time formed the overwhelming majority of the population. Also read: 'Palestinian state...': What is the only 'disagreement' Trump had with UK PM Palestine and Israel: A demographic re-engineering by Britain for economic reasons Palestinian Arabs comprised over 85 per cent of the population in the early 1920s. Yet, their national aspirations were sidelined as Britain facilitated and legitimised waves of Jewish immigration and land acquisition under the terms of the Mandate. These policies were informed by a range of motives, including post-war diplomacy, geopolitical strategy, and the desire to maintain influence over critical trade routes such as the Suez Canal and emerging oil infrastructure in the Middle East. By 1947, Jewish ownership of land had increased to about 6.6 per cent — up from less than 3 per cent in 1918. Jews became roughly one-third of the total population, mostly concentrated in urban and coastal areas such as Tel Aviv, Haifa, and parts of Jerusalem. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-says-he-disagrees-with-starmer-over-recognising-palestine-1758217841269/embed Partition, War, and the ‘Nakba’ exodus: How Israel came into being The 1936–1939 Arab Revolt fiercely challenged British rule and protested the acceleration of Jewish immigration and land dispossession. The British response was brutal and involved the deployment of tens of thousands of troops, mass arrests, and executions. The revolt was eventually crushed. It left the Palestinian national movement weakened. After the Second World War, Britain, now exhausted and facing increasing violence from both Arab and Jewish armed groups, referred the issue of Palestine to the newly formed United Nations. In 1947, the UN General Assembly proposed a Partition Plan (Resolution 181), which sought to divide Palestine into two states: a Jewish state covering approximately 56 per cent of the territory, and an Arab state covering about 43 per cent, with Jerusalem placed under international administration. This plan marked the first official two-state framework, though it was deeply contested. At the time, Jews constituted about one-third of the population and owned a small fraction of the land, yet were allocated the larger portion. Britain, torn by internal disagreements and wary of taking sides, abstained from the UN vote on the partition. By May 1948, Britain fully withdrew its forces, leaving behind a power vacuum and worsening instability. Also read: Israel's Ministry of Culture decides to withdraw funds for 'Israeli Oscars' after a film on Palestine wins top award Israel declares independence, wins war, and controls most of Palestinian territory On 14 May 1948, Israel declared independence. The next day, 15 May, neighbouring Arab armies — including Egypt, Jordan (then Transjordan), Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq — launched a military intervention, leading to the first Arab-Israeli war. Despite being newly established, Israel was far from defenceless. It inherited a well-organised paramilitary structure, chiefly the Haganah, which was transformed into the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF). Israel also received significant arms shipments from erstwhile Czechoslovakia, and benefited from international fundraising and the support of thousands of Jewish volunteers from abroad, known as Mahal. Britain did not support Israel militarily during the war, and maintained an arms embargo on both sides. However, its earlier policies under the Mandate had laid much of the institutional and demographic groundwork that made Israel’s military success possible. Also read: Who is Mahmoud Khalil? US judge rules for deportation of pro-Palestinian activist to Syria or Algeria How Israel managed to control most of Palestine By the end of the war, Israel controlled 78 per cent of historic Palestine, far beyond what had been allocated under the UN plan. This included key cities like Jaffa, Haifa, and Acre. More than 750,000 Palestinians were expelled or fled their homes during this period, a mass displacement known as the Nakba — Arabic for “catastrophe”. Over 400 Palestinian villages were depopulated and many were deliberately destroyed. During and after the Nakba, large numbers of Palestinian refugees were forced into camps in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, which today constitute the core Palestinian territories. These two territories, now governed individually and fragmented by decades of conflict, are separated by around 70 kilometres of Israeli land, as you can see from the map in the picture. Also read: India joins 142 nations in backing UN declaration, votes for Palestinian state Britain built the imperial geography of Palestine with maps drawn abroad Even today, the effects of Britain’s colonial architecture remain etched into the physical and political geography of the Palestinian question — from the configuration of settlements and roads to the demarcation of borders and land registries. Many of the railways, road networks, and administrative boundaries still trace their origins back to maps drawn in London or Geneva. These imperial-era lines continue to define the contours of division, dispossession, and control. The Nakba was not merely an unintended side effect of conflict. It was the result of a decades-long process of settler colonialism — a political project supported, at various points, both tacitly and overtly by British imperial policy. Britain had committed to facilitating the establishment of a Jewish national home while promising to protect the rights of the Arab majority. But in practice, this dual obligation produced systemic inequity. Palestinians were excluded from meaningful sovereignty by a system designed to serve imperial and settler interests. Also read: Palestine President Abbas writes to PM Modi, seeks support on Gaza: Ambassador Shawesh British recognition of Palestine would be a form of restorative justice As outlined here, Britain bears direct historical responsibility for a colonial process that denied Palestinians the very statehood it now hesitates to acknowledge. This responsibility is not merely rhetorical — it is deeply embedded in decades of policy choices that shaped the dispossession, disempowerment, and displacement of an entire people. No amount of warfare is going to solve this problem. Can talks succeed where violence has failed? One side would argue — and international law supports this — that Palestinians have a right to sovereignty, dignity, and territorial integrity. But others argue that recognising Palestinian statehood would be incompatible with Israel’s right to exist and secure its borders — a view that has underpinned decades of political stalemate. Yet Britain, the state most historically responsible for the roots of the conflict remains on the sidelines. Meanwhile, European allies such as Spain, Ireland, and Norway have already extended formal recognition of Palestine. France, Belgium, Slovenia, and Malta have expressed strong support and are reportedly considering similar steps. Britain’s recognition of Palestine would be the closing of the colonial loop. But will it solve the problem? If it happens, Britain’s recognition of Palestine would be a "full circle" moment in the tumultuous history of the region. It would require the difficult but necessary admission that Britain helped enable one people’s independence while obstructing another’s. Britain cannot undo the past, but recognition would symbolically confront that legacy. It would represent a form of justice long delayed — an attempt to restore some measure of balance in a region still shaped by the consequences of imperial borders and colonial betrayals. For Britain, recognising Palestine is not merely a symbolic act — it is a moral reckoning long overdue. It would not by itself resolve the conflict, but it would affirm the principle that historical injustice cannot be left unaddressed forever: justice, after all, begins with acknowledgement. And for Palestinians, that acknowledgement is now more than a century overdue. Whether it will lead to peace, or provoke yet another war, is a question no one can answer. But without justice, peace will remain a distant dream

<p>If it happens, Britain's recognition of Palestine would be an act of historical justice, acknowledging its colonial-era role in Palestinian displacement and the creation of Israel during the Mandate era. It is essential not to forget the baggage of history that continues to bleed people</p>

Palestinian statehood recognition is UK’s moral responsibility. The British colonial legacy behind creation of Israel, displacement of Palestinians

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during a press conference on Sunday (August 10), said that Palestinians were offered statehood "multiple times" previously, but they did not consider it. “Today, most of the Jewish public is against the Palestinian state for the simple reason that they know it won’t bring peace, it will bring war,” he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“To have European countries and Australia march into that rabbit hole … is disappointing, and I think it’s actually shameful,” Netanyahu said. “But it’s not going to take, it’s not going to change our position. We will not commit national suicide to get a good op-ed for two minutes. We won’t do that," the Israeli PM added.</p><h2>‘Destruction in Gaza is a result of booby traps by Hamas’</h2><p>When he was asked about the destruction his army's occupation made in the strip, the Israeli PM said it was the result of "booby traps." Netanyahu claimed that Hamas has apparently set multiple booby traps in the area.</p><p><br>"The physical destruction [In Gaza] is not because Israel is destroying structures with people in them. That's not what's happening. Israel, in fact, is clearing the population, as in Rafah. But the Hamas terrorists who stay in those areas have booby trapped just about every single building. Not every single building, but a lot of them. And every road and every street, and every junction, every intersection. So one of the things we do is we place old APCs (Armoured Personnel Carriers) with tons of explosives. And we detonate them, and they set off all the booby traps. That's why you see the destruction," Netanyahu said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"And we do similar things in tunnels, in terror tunnels. We put TNT in them and we detonate them, after people have left, but they are under the building, so the buildings collapse. That's why you see destruction," the Israeli PM added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during a press conference on Sunday (August 10), said that Palestinians were offered statehood multiple times previously, but they did not consider it. 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during a press conference on Sunday (August 10), said that Palestinians were offered statehood "multiple times" previously, but they did not consider it. “Today, most of the Jewish public is against the Palestinian state for the simple reason that they know it won’t bring peace, it will bring war,” he said. “To have European countries and Australia march into that rabbit hole … is disappointing, and I think it’s actually shameful,” Netanyahu said. “But it’s not going to take, it’s not going to change our position. We will not commit national suicide to get a good op-ed for two minutes. We won’t do that," the Israeli PM added. ‘Destruction in Gaza is a result of booby traps by Hamas’ When he was asked about the destruction his army's occupation made in the strip, the Israeli PM said it was the result of "booby traps." Netanyahu claimed that Hamas has apparently set multiple booby traps in the area. "The physical destruction [In Gaza] is not because Israel is destroying structures with people in them. That's not what's happening. Israel, in fact, is clearing the population, as in Rafah. But the Hamas terrorists who stay in those areas have booby trapped just about every single building. Not every single building, but a lot of them. And every road and every street, and every junction, every intersection. So one of the things we do is we place old APCs (Armoured Personnel Carriers) with tons of explosives. And we detonate them, and they set off all the booby traps. That's why you see the destruction," Netanyahu said. "And we do similar things in tunnels, in terror tunnels. We put TNT in them and we detonate them, after people have left, but they are under the building, so the buildings collapse. That's why you see destruction," the Israeli PM added.

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during a press conference on Sunday (August 10), said that Palestinians were offered statehood "multiple times" previously, but they did not consider it.&nbsp;</p>

'They were offered statehood multiple times, but they rejected': Netanyahu on Palestinian statehood

<p>The German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said on Thursday (July 31) that the Palestinian state recognition "must begin now" for his country. He said that it came at the end of the negotiations for a two-state solution, but the process should start now. He also warned that Germany would respond to "unilateral steps." The foreign minister stated flying to Israel and the Palestinian territories on a trip. Germany has termed the trip a fact-finding mission amid heightened alarm over starvation in Gaza.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>His statement marked the strongest warning from Germany to Israel as Western nations intensify efforts to exert pressure. In recent weeks, Britain, Canada and France have all signalled their readiness to recognise a Palestinian state in Israeli-occupied territory at the United Nations General Assembly this September.</p><p><br>"In light of open annexation threats from parts of the Israeli government, a growing number of countries - including many in Europe - are now prepared to recognise a Palestinian state even without a prior negotiation process. The region and the Middle East peace process are therefore at a crossroads," the minister said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"That process must begin now. Should unilateral steps be taken, Germany too will be compelled to respond," he added. &nbsp;</p><h2>After France and the UK, Canada to recognise the Palestinian state</h2><p>Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Wednesday (July 30) said that Canada will formally recognise the State of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September. Carney made the announcement following a Cabinet meeting focused on the crisis in Gaza. The decision came shortly after his discussions with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who declared a similar move earlier this week.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“The level of human suffering in Gaza is intolerable. Canada intends to recognise the State of Palestine at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025,” Carney said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has said that the process of recognising the Palestinian state must begin now for his country. He said the two-state solution is the only way to make people on both sides satisfied. 

The German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said on Thursday (July 31) that the Palestinian state recognition "must begin now" for his country. He said that it came at the end of the negotiations for a two-state solution, but the process should start now. He also warned that Germany would respond to "unilateral steps." The foreign minister stated flying to Israel and the Palestinian territories on a trip. Germany has termed the trip a fact-finding mission amid heightened alarm over starvation in Gaza. His statement marked the strongest warning from Germany to Israel as Western nations intensify efforts to exert pressure. In recent weeks, Britain, Canada and France have all signalled their readiness to recognise a Palestinian state in Israeli-occupied territory at the United Nations General Assembly this September. "In light of open annexation threats from parts of the Israeli government, a growing number of countries - including many in Europe - are now prepared to recognise a Palestinian state even without a prior negotiation process. The region and the Middle East peace process are therefore at a crossroads," the minister said. "That process must begin now. Should unilateral steps be taken, Germany too will be compelled to respond," he added. After France and the UK, Canada to recognise the Palestinian state Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Wednesday (July 30) said that Canada will formally recognise the State of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September. Carney made the announcement following a Cabinet meeting focused on the crisis in Gaza. The decision came shortly after his discussions with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who declared a similar move earlier this week. “The level of human suffering in Gaza is intolerable. Canada intends to recognise the State of Palestine at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025,” Carney said.

<p>German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has said that the process of recognising the Palestinian state must begin now for his country. He said the two-state solution is the only way to make people on both sides satisfied.&nbsp;</p>

'Must begin NOW': German foreign minister calls for Palestinian state recognition, says it's 'only path that...'

<p>Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Wednesday (July 30) said that Canada will formally recognise the State of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September. Carney made the announcement following a Cabinet meeting focused on the crisis in Gaza. The decision came shortly after his discussions with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who declared a similar move earlier this week.</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-rewards-monstrous-terrorism-netanyahu-blasts-starmer-over-uk-s-plan-to-recognise-palestinian-state-1753823471830"><strong>'Rewards monstrous terrorism': Netanyahu blasts Starmer over UK's plan to recognise Palestinian state</strong></a></p><p>“The level of human suffering in Gaza is intolerable. Canada intends to recognise the State of Palestine at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025,” Carney said.</p><h2><strong>Canada follows France and UK in shift on Palestine</strong></h2><p>Carney’s decision places Canada alongside France and the United Kingdom, both of which have recently declared their intention to recognise a Palestinian state unless Israel takes substantial steps toward peace.</p><p>French President Emmanuel Macron said last week that France would support Palestinian statehood at the UN General Assembly, becoming the first major Western power and the first G7 country to do so. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer followed with a similar announcement earlier this week.</p><p>More than 140 countries currently recognise a Palestinian state, including several European nations. Although the move by Canada, like those by France and the UK, is largely symbolic, it highlights a growing diplomatic pressure on Israel to agree to a ceasefire and revive peace talks.</p>

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced Canada will formally recognise the State of Palestine at the UN General Assembly in September 2025, citing intolerable suffering in Gaza.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Wednesday (July 30) said that Canada will formally recognise the State of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September. Carney made the announcement following a Cabinet meeting focused on the crisis in Gaza. The decision came shortly after his discussions with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who declared a similar move earlier this week. Also read: 'Rewards monstrous terrorism': Netanyahu blasts Starmer over UK's plan to recognise Palestinian state “The level of human suffering in Gaza is intolerable. Canada intends to recognise the State of Palestine at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025,” Carney said. Canada follows France and UK in shift on Palestine Carney’s decision places Canada alongside France and the United Kingdom, both of which have recently declared their intention to recognise a Palestinian state unless Israel takes substantial steps toward peace. French President Emmanuel Macron said last week that France would support Palestinian statehood at the UN General Assembly, becoming the first major Western power and the first G7 country to do so. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer followed with a similar announcement earlier this week. More than 140 countries currently recognise a Palestinian state, including several European nations. Although the move by Canada, like those by France and the UK, is largely symbolic, it highlights a growing diplomatic pressure on Israel to agree to a ceasefire and revive peace talks.

<p>Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced Canada will formally recognise the State of Palestine at the UN General Assembly in September 2025, citing intolerable suffering in Gaza.</p>

'Human suffering in Gaza is intolerable': After France and UK, Canada to recognise Palestine state, says PM Carney

<p>United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer continues to resist calls to recognise a Palestinian state even as he confirmed his government's plan to airdrop aid into Gaza and evacuate children who need medical access to help relieve what Downing Street has labelled an appalling situation. Reports suggest that amid mass starvation in Gaza, the UK PM is facing pressure from inside his cabinet and MPs to recognise a Palestinian state - around 221 MPs one third of the House of Commons on Saturday (Jul 26) have signed a letter urging him to that end.</p><h2><strong>A Palestinian statehood</strong></h2><p>As Gaza sinks deeper into a humanitarian nightmare, more than 221 British MPs, including members of the prime minister's own front bench, have signed a letter urging him to make a formal announcement recognising Palestinian statehood at a UN conference next week. The coordinated push, led by Labour MP Sarah Champion, calls on the UK government to finally act on its long-standing commitment to a two-state solution.</p><p>"We are expectant that the outcome of the conference will be the UK Government outlining when and how it will act on its long-standing commitment on a two-state solution; as well as how it will work with international partners to make this a reality," said the ministers. As per Mirror, Champion acknowledged that "recognition alone will not end the suffering in Gaza" but said that it would be an important step towards a two-state solution and eventually the end of the war.</p><p>"Recognition would send a powerful symbolic message that we support the rights of the Palestinian people, that they are not alone and they need to maintain hope that there is a route that leads to lasting peace and security for both the Israeli and the Palestinian people," she said.</p><h2><strong>UK's efforts to relieve the humanitarian crisis in Gaza</strong></h2><p>In an op-ed published Friday night, Starmer acknowledged the horror unfolding in Gaza. "It is a humanitarian catastrophe. And it must end now," he wrote, pledging to "pull every lever we have to get food and lifesaving support to the Palestinian people immediately."</p><p>However, on the question of recognising Palestine as an independent state, Starmer said that moment must come as part of a pathway to a lasting peace in the region. "It must be part of a wider plan which ultimately results in a two-state solution and lasting security for Palestinians and Israelis," he wrote. Starmer said that this was the "way to ensure that recognition is a tool of maximum impact to improve the lives of those who are suffering – which must always be our ultimate goal."</p>

UK PM Keir Starmer is facing pressure to recognise a Palestinian state at the UN conference next week. Even as he confirmed the UK's plans to drop aid into starving Gaza, the British leader said THIS about recognising Palestinian statehood.

United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer continues to resist calls to recognise a Palestinian state even as he confirmed his government's plan to airdrop aid into Gaza and evacuate children who need medical access to help relieve what Downing Street has labelled an appalling situation. Reports suggest that amid mass starvation in Gaza, the UK PM is facing pressure from inside his cabinet and MPs to recognise a Palestinian state - around 221 MPs one third of the House of Commons on Saturday (Jul 26) have signed a letter urging him to that end. A Palestinian statehood As Gaza sinks deeper into a humanitarian nightmare, more than 221 British MPs, including members of the prime minister's own front bench, have signed a letter urging him to make a formal announcement recognising Palestinian statehood at a UN conference next week. The coordinated push, led by Labour MP Sarah Champion, calls on the UK government to finally act on its long-standing commitment to a two-state solution. "We are expectant that the outcome of the conference will be the UK Government outlining when and how it will act on its long-standing commitment on a two-state solution; as well as how it will work with international partners to make this a reality," said the ministers. As per Mirror, Champion acknowledged that "recognition alone will not end the suffering in Gaza" but said that it would be an important step towards a two-state solution and eventually the end of the war. "Recognition would send a powerful symbolic message that we support the rights of the Palestinian people, that they are not alone and they need to maintain hope that there is a route that leads to lasting peace and security for both the Israeli and the Palestinian people," she said. UK's efforts to relieve the humanitarian crisis in Gaza In an op-ed published Friday night, Starmer acknowledged the horror unfolding in Gaza. "It is a humanitarian catastrophe. And it must end now," he wrote, pledging to "pull every lever we have to get food and lifesaving support to the Palestinian people immediately." However, on the question of recognising Palestine as an independent state, Starmer said that moment must come as part of a pathway to a lasting peace in the region. "It must be part of a wider plan which ultimately results in a two-state solution and lasting security for Palestinians and Israelis," he wrote. Starmer said that this was the "way to ensure that recognition is a tool of maximum impact to improve the lives of those who are suffering – which must always be our ultimate goal."

<p>UK PM Keir Starmer is facing pressure to recognise a Palestinian state at the UN conference next week. Even as he confirmed the UK's plans to drop aid into starving Gaza, the British leader said THIS about recognising Palestinian statehood.</p>

UK MPs build pressure on PM Starmer over recognising Palestine as British govt extends help to starving Gaza

<p>Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Saturday (July 26) commented on France President Emmanuel Macron's decision to recognise Palestine as a State in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) session in September this year, stating that it would be ‘counter-productive.’ She also said that she is not in favour of recognising Palestine because it doesn't exist. Meloni's remark comes after Germany also indicated that it was not planning to recognise the state of Palestine in the short term, but added that its priority now is to make "long-overdue progress" towards a two-state solution. Meanwhile, the United States condemned France's decision and said that it was a slap in the face of the victims of the October 7 attack by Hamas.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"I am very much in favour of the State of Palestine, but I am not in favour of recognising it before establishing it," Meloni told Italian daily La Repubblica. "If something that doesn't exist is recognised on paper, the problem could appear to be solved when it isn't," she added.&nbsp;</p><h2>France to recognise State of Palestine</h2><p>In a big diplomatic move, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will recognise the state of Palestine at the the United Nations General Assembly in September this year. In a letter to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, Macron emphasised the urgency of ending the war in Gaza and protecting civilians, describing his decision as a crucial step toward achieving lasting peace in the Middle East. Macron also reaffirmed France’s support for an immediate ceasefire, the release of Israeli hostages, the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, the disarmament of Hamas, and long-term development efforts for a future Palestinian state. The announcement was met with strong condemnation from Israeli officials. France would join list of 147 of the 193 UN member states that have recognised Palestine. It represents 75 percent of the international community.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Consistent with its historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, I have decided that France will recognize the State of Palestine.<br> <br>I will make this solemn announcement before the United Nations General Assembly this coming September.… <a href="https://t.co/VTSVGVH41I">pic.twitter.com/VTSVGVH41I</a></p>&mdash; Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1948482142356603089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>How Israel and Hamas reacted?</h2><p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that France's move would reward terrorism and could lead to the creation of another Iranian proxy, similar to what happened in Gaza. He warned that, under the current conditions, a Palestinian state would serve as a platform for attacking Israel rather than coexisting peacefully. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described the decision as disgraceful and claimed it amounted to a surrender to terrorism. Meanwhile, far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich went even further, calling on Israel to respond by formally annexing the West Bank. Meanwhile, Hamas welcomed French President Macron’s announcement, describing it as a positive step toward justice for the Palestinian people and support for their legitimate right to self-determination. In a statement, the group urged all countries, particularly European nations and those that have yet to recognise Palestine, to follow France’s example. “We call on all countries of the world — especially European nations and those that have not yet recognised the State of Palestine — to follow France’s lead,” Hamas added.</p>

A day after France announced that it would recognise Palestine as a State in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) session in September this year, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni responded to it. Meloni's reaction comes after the US rejected France's move

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Saturday (July 26) commented on France President Emmanuel Macron's decision to recognise Palestine as a State in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) session in September this year, stating that it would be ‘counter-productive.’ She also said that she is not in favour of recognising Palestine because it doesn't exist. Meloni's remark comes after Germany also indicated that it was not planning to recognise the state of Palestine in the short term, but added that its priority now is to make "long-overdue progress" towards a two-state solution. Meanwhile, the United States condemned France's decision and said that it was a slap in the face of the victims of the October 7 attack by Hamas. "I am very much in favour of the State of Palestine, but I am not in favour of recognising it before establishing it," Meloni told Italian daily La Repubblica. "If something that doesn't exist is recognised on paper, the problem could appear to be solved when it isn't," she added. France to recognise State of Palestine In a big diplomatic move, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will recognise the state of Palestine at the the United Nations General Assembly in September this year. In a letter to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, Macron emphasised the urgency of ending the war in Gaza and protecting civilians, describing his decision as a crucial step toward achieving lasting peace in the Middle East. Macron also reaffirmed France’s support for an immediate ceasefire, the release of Israeli hostages, the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, the disarmament of Hamas, and long-term development efforts for a future Palestinian state. The announcement was met with strong condemnation from Israeli officials. France would join list of 147 of the 193 UN member states that have recognised Palestine. It represents 75 percent of the international community.

<p>A day after France announced that it would recognise Palestine as a State in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) session in September this year, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni responded to it. Meloni's reaction comes after the US rejected France's move</p>

'If something that doesn't exist...': Italy's Meloni slams France over decision to recognise State of Palestine

<p>Pressure is increasing on Britain to recognise the state of Palestine, just a day after French President Emmanuel Macron made the historic announcement to do so. While the UK continues to support a two-state solution since 1980 in the Israel-Palestine conflict, the war and worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza are forcing the hand of the Labour Prime Minister Kier Starmer to make the bold deicision.</p><h2>UK recognising Palestine state: What are Starmer's choices?</h2><p>Starmer and several member of his cabinet are of the view that a recognition of the Palestinian state should be ‘strategically timed’ within a peace process between Israel and the Palestinians. But criticis argue that waiting for a perfect moment could lead to &nbsp;missing the opportunity altogether, warning that ultimately there would not be a Palestinian state left to recognise. Amid the Gaza war, the UK has taken limited steps like sanctioning hardliner Israeli ministers like Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir for inciting violence.<br>But Labour governemnt's is being slammed for being overly cautious to avoid offending allies like the US.</p><h2>France’s recognition of Palestinian state</h2><p>On Thursday (July 24), French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans to recognise Palestinian statehood by the UN General Assembly in September. France’s commitment to recognise Palestinian statehood has intensified scrutiny of the UK’s position. &nbsp;With this histoic move, France will become the first G7 member to recognise Palestine.<br>Macron’s initiative has increased expectations for UK alignment, since the two nations have pledged to coordinate on the Israel-Palestine issue.&nbsp;</p><p>Palestinian officials as well as countries like Saudi Arabia welcomed Macron's decision, while the US and Israel condemned it.</p><p>Starmer is expected to speak to Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz as early as Friday.</p><h2>Starmer is facing pressure from both inside and outside his party</h2><p>If UK recognises Palestine, it would be a watershed moment. Already, more than 125 British MPs, including from Labour and the Liberal Democrats, supported the immediate recognition of Palestine, calling it an inalienable right, not conditional on a broader peace process.<br>Labour MP Sarah Champion recently organised a cross-party letter signed by more than 100 MPs, citing the UK’s historical responsibility stemming from the Balfour Declaration, to recognise Palestine. Some members of Starmer cabinet such as Health Secretary Wes Streeting, Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood and Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn have publically called for Palestine recognition. London Mayor Sadiq Khan and Labour-supporingng Trades Union Congress have also joined the call.</p><p>More than 30 former diplomats and ambassadors, the Archbishop of York have asked for recognition, citing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.</p><h2>What is Starmer's position on Palestinian statehood?</h2><p>The British prime inister has acknowledged Palestinian statehood as an “inalienable right”, and condemned the 'unspeakable and indefensible' situation in Gaza, where mass starvation is being reported due to Israel’s aid blockade.<br>But Starmer maintains that a recognition of Palestine must come within a peace process to ensure maximum impact, a view backed by some of his cabinet members like Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle.</p><h2>Starmer recognising Palestine could jeapordise ties with US amid Trump’s visit</h2><p>Trump is visiting Scotland on a private trip, but is expected to either meet or talk to Starmer when he is in UK on Friday. Starmer is supporting efforts led by the US, Qatar and Egypt to secure a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel. Trump, &nbsp;a close ally of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is likely to pressure Starmer against recognising Palestine. Starmer, for his part, is likely to raise the Gaza humanitarian crisis with Trump. Netanyahu opposes the &nbsp;recognition of Palestine, calling it a launch pad to annihilate Israel.</p><h2>Starmer's dilemma on recognising Palestine</h2><p>As mentioned, there is internal division in Starmer's Labour Party, where pro-Israel voices have warned that a unilateral recognition of Palestine could undermine the UK’s diplomatic credibility, violate the Oslo Accords’ requirement for negotiated solutions to the issue. At the same time, ideologically, it is only a Labour government that can take te bold move of recognising the state of Palestine, failing which would be a loss of historic opportunity. Which side of history would Starmer want to be, is the question.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Critics argue that waiting for a perfect moment could lead to  missing the opportunity altogether, warning that ultimately there would not be a Palestinian state left to recognise.

Pressure is increasing on Britain to recognise the state of Palestine, just a day after French President Emmanuel Macron made the historic announcement to do so. While the UK continues to support a two-state solution since 1980 in the Israel-Palestine conflict, the war and worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza are forcing the hand of the Labour Prime Minister Kier Starmer to make the bold deicision. UK recognising Palestine state: What are Starmer's choices? Starmer and several member of his cabinet are of the view that a recognition of the Palestinian state should be ‘strategically timed’ within a peace process between Israel and the Palestinians. But criticis argue that waiting for a perfect moment could lead to missing the opportunity altogether, warning that ultimately there would not be a Palestinian state left to recognise. Amid the Gaza war, the UK has taken limited steps like sanctioning hardliner Israeli ministers like Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir for inciting violence. But Labour governemnt's is being slammed for being overly cautious to avoid offending allies like the US. France’s recognition of Palestinian state On Thursday (July 24), French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans to recognise Palestinian statehood by the UN General Assembly in September. France’s commitment to recognise Palestinian statehood has intensified scrutiny of the UK’s position. With this histoic move, France will become the first G7 member to recognise Palestine. Macron’s initiative has increased expectations for UK alignment, since the two nations have pledged to coordinate on the Israel-Palestine issue. Palestinian officials as well as countries like Saudi Arabia welcomed Macron's decision, while the US and Israel condemned it. Starmer is expected to speak to Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz as early as Friday. Starmer is facing pressure from both inside and outside his party If UK recognises Palestine, it would be a watershed moment. Already, more than 125 British MPs, including from Labour and the Liberal Democrats, supported the immediate recognition of Palestine, calling it an inalienable right, not conditional on a broader peace process. Labour MP Sarah Champion recently organised a cross-party letter signed by more than 100 MPs, citing the UK’s historical responsibility stemming from the Balfour Declaration, to recognise Palestine. Some members of Starmer cabinet such as Health Secretary Wes Streeting, Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood and Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn have publically called for Palestine recognition. London Mayor Sadiq Khan and Labour-supporingng Trades Union Congress have also joined the call. More than 30 former diplomats and ambassadors, the Archbishop of York have asked for recognition, citing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. What is Starmer's position on Palestinian statehood? The British prime inister has acknowledged Palestinian statehood as an “inalienable right”, and condemned the 'unspeakable and indefensible' situation in Gaza, where mass starvation is being reported due to Israel’s aid blockade. But Starmer maintains that a recognition of Palestine must come within a peace process to ensure maximum impact, a view backed by some of his cabinet members like Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle. Starmer recognising Palestine could jeapordise ties with US amid Trump’s visit Trump is visiting Scotland on a private trip, but is expected to either meet or talk to Starmer when he is in UK on Friday. Starmer is supporting efforts led by the US, Qatar and Egypt to secure a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel. Trump, a close ally of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is likely to pressure Starmer against recognising Palestine. Starmer, for his part, is likely to raise the Gaza humanitarian crisis with Trump. Netanyahu opposes the recognition of Palestine, calling it a launch pad to annihilate Israel. Starmer's dilemma on recognising Palestine As mentioned, there is internal division in Starmer's Labour Party, where pro-Israel voices have warned that a unilateral recognition of Palestine could undermine the UK’s diplomatic credibility, violate the Oslo Accords’ requirement for negotiated solutions to the issue. At the same time, ideologically, it is only a Labour government that can take te bold move of recognising the state of Palestine, failing which would be a loss of historic opportunity. Which side of history would Starmer want to be, is the question.

<p>Critics argue that waiting for a perfect moment could lead to &nbsp;missing the opportunity altogether, warning that ultimately there would not be a Palestinian state left to recognise.</p>

Will UK recognise Palestine state? Pressure mounts on PM Starmer to follow France as Trump comes calling

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Will UK recognise Palestine state? Pressure on PM Starmer as Trump visits