More than 200 lawmakers in the United Kingdom have called on the British government to recognise a Palestinian state, as pressure mounts on Prime Minister Keir Starmer to take concrete action amid Israel’s war on Gaza. The MPs, from across the political spectrum, signed an open letter urging Starmer’s Labour government to recognise a Palestinian state in advance of a United Nations conference on Palestine next week.
The letter, signed by 221 MPs, including Labour, Conservative, Liberal Democrat, SNP, and Green party members, reads: “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.” The MPs emphasize that UK recognition would have a significant impact due to the country’s historic connections and its membership on the UN Security Council.
The letter comes as public anger grows in the UK and around the world over Israel’s continued bombardment and blockade of the Gaza Strip, which has spurred a deadly starvation crisis. It also follows French President Emmanuel Macron’s announcement that France would recognise the State of Palestine at the UN in September. Macron said: “Consistent with its historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, I have decided that France will recognise the State of Palestine.” The French president’s move has drawn criticism from Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who said it “rewards terror”.
Starmer said the “appalling scenes in Gaza are unrelenting” and acknowledged the need for a pathway to peace in the region. However, he stopped short of announcing plans to recognise a Palestinian state, instead saying he was working “on a pathway to peace in the region”. He added: “Recognition of a Palestinian state has to be one of those steps. I am unequivocal about that. But it must be part of a wider plan which ultimately results in a two-state solution and lasting security for Palestinians and Israelis.”
Protesters gathered outside Starmer’s residence in London, expressing outrage at the British government’s stance amid the dire situation in Gaza. Al Jazeera’s Milena Veselinovic reported that demonstrators want Starmer to do more with the power and influence he has to put an end to the conflict. The British government has faced growing calls to sanction Israel and impose an arms embargo against the country.