Starmer to Convene Cabinet on gaza Amid Growing Calls for Palestinian State Recognition
By Lucas Fernandez
LONDON – British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to convene a cabinet meeting next week, a government source confirmed sunday. The gathering is widely expected to address the escalating situation in Gaza, as Starmer faces increasing pressure to formally recognize a Palestinian state.
The Financial Times first reported the impending meeting, noting that ministers, currently on summer recess until September 1, would be recalled to discuss Gaza. Starmer’s office had not immediately responded to a request for comment from Reuters.
This recall follows Starmer’s statement on Friday, where he indicated that the British government would recognize a Palestinian state only as part of a negotiated peace deal. this stance has reportedly disappointed many within his labor Party, who advocate for a more immediate recognition, similar to actions taken by France.
French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Thursday that France would recognize a Palestinian state, a move that has drawn strong criticism from Israel and the United States. This follows similar recognitions by Spain, Norway, and Ireland last year.
In the UK, over 220 Members of Parliament, predominantly from the Labour Party and representing approximately one-third of the House of Commons, penned a letter to Starmer on Friday urging him to recognize a Palestinian state. Historically, successive British governments have maintained that formal recognition would occur “when the time is right,” without specifying a timeline or the precise conditions required.
Starmer’s foreign policy approach is also influenced by the arrival of U.S. President Donald trump in Scotland on Friday. Starmer has cultivated warm relations with Trump, and historically, Britain has rarely deviated from the United States on foreign policy matters.
Meanwhile, Israel continues to face mounting international criticism regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, criticism that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government rejects.
Background and Historical Trends
The question of recognizing a Palestinian state has been a long-standing and complex issue in international diplomacy. For decades, the international community has sought a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, envisioning an autonomous Palestinian state alongside Israel. Though, progress has been stalled by numerous factors, including ongoing settlement expansion, security concerns, and internal divisions within Palestinian leadership.
Many European nations, including Sweden, have already recognized a Palestinian state. The recent moves by France, Spain, Norway, and Ireland signal a potential shift in European policy, driven by frustration over the lack of progress in peace negotiations and the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. The UK’s position, historically aligned with the U.S., has been more cautious, emphasizing the need for a negotiated settlement. Starmer’s current stance reflects this traditional approach, though the internal pressure from his party and the evolving international landscape may influence future decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is the UK government considering recognizing a Palestinian state?
A: There is growing pressure from within the labour Party and from international allies, alongside concerns over the humanitarian situation in Gaza, prompting discussions on this matter.
Q: What is the UK’s current official policy on recognizing a Palestinian state?
A: The UK government’s policy is to recognize a Palestinian state when it is indeed deemed the “right time,” typically as part of a negotiated peace settlement, rather than unilaterally.
Q: Which other European countries have recognized a Palestinian state?
A: Spain,Norway,Ireland,and Sweden are among the European nations that have formally recognized a Palestinian state.
7 · Compliance & disclaimers
This article reports on political developments and does not constitute legal, financial, or health advice.
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