UK Recognizes palestinian State Following Trump‘s England Visit
LONDON – The United kingdom formally recognized the State of Palestine, hours after the conclusion of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s state visit to England on Thursday, September 18th. The move, signaling a shift in British foreign policy, comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to revitalize the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.
The timing of the declaration,following Trump’s visit at the invitation of King Charles III and Prime minister Keir Starmer,is notable given the former president’s staunch support for Israel and his management’s policies that where widely seen as detrimental to Palestinian aspirations. The recognition aims to reaffirm the UK’s commitment to a two-state solution and underscores the belief that a viable Palestinian state is essential for long-term regional stability. The decision impacts ongoing negotiations, possibly bolstering Palestinian negotiating power and increasing international pressure for a resolution to the decades-long conflict.
Trump’s three-day visit, beginning Tuesday, September 16th, was framed by the British government as a exhibition of the “strongest” British-united States relations, built on a 250-year history. During the visit, discussions centered on strengthening cooperation in energy and technology, including agreements to bolster nuclear energy collaboration.
The ceremonial highlight occurred Wednesday, September 17th, with Trump and First Lady Melania Trump receiving a grand welcome at Windsor Palace, including a horse-drawn carriage procession alongside king Charles, Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Princess Catherine, accompanied by a military air display and honorary cannon fire.
On Thursday, Prime minister Starmer hosted Trump at chequers palace to address ongoing trade disputes, specifically the 25% tariff on British steel imports to the US. Trump described the visit as “one of the highest honors in my life,” reiterating the sentiment during a luxury banquet hosted by King Charles III.