UK Formally Backs Palestinian State Based on 1967 Borders,Escalating Tensions with Israel
london,UK – July 24,2024 – In a significant shift in policy,the united Kingdom has officially announced its support for the establishment of a Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders,including East Jerusalem. The move, detailed in a formal memorandum, has been met with strong condemnation from Israeli Prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and is already straining relations between the two countries. This announcement positions the UK as the seventh nation to recognize Palestinian statehood, perhaps adding momentum to international efforts for a two-state solution.
Details of the UK’s Position
The UK’s memorandum explicitly states its recognition of the “undeniable right of the Palestinian people to self-determination” as an self-reliant state. Key tenets of the UK’s position include:
Border Demarcation: the proposed Palestinian state will be based on the 1967 borders, encompassing the West Bank and Gaza Strip, with East Jerusalem as its capital. The UK explicitly stated that it does not recognize Israeli sovereignty over areas captured in the 1967 Six-Day War, including East Jerusalem.
Palestinian Authority Authority: The memorandum emphasizes the need for full authority to be granted to the Palestinian Authority (PA) over governance, security, and economic development within the future Palestinian state.
Elections: The UK is calling for general elections to be held “at the earliest time” in East Jerusalem, Gaza, and the West Bank.
Gaza reconstruction: The UK is advocating for the Palestinian Authority to lead the reconstruction and revitalization of Gaza, rejecting the recent US proposals for direct US involvement in the territory.
Two-State Solution: The UK reiterated its commitment to a two-state solution as the best path to ensure mutual peace and security for both Palestinians and Israelis.Escalating Tensions & Sanctions
The announcement has triggered a sharp rebuke from Israel. Prime Minister Netanyahu accused UK Labor Party leader Keir Starmer of “rewarding the horror of Hamas’ terrorism” and “punishing victims.” This criticism follows the UK’s decision to impose sanctions on two Israeli ministers: National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich.
The sanctions were levied in response to what the UK government described as “extremist settler violence” and policies promoting discrimination against Palestinians. The UK cited concerns over the ministers’ roles in inciting violence and obstructing peace efforts.
Context & Past Background
The 1967 borders refer to the armistice lines established after the Six-Day war. These lines are internationally recognized as the basis for negotiations towards a two-state solution, although Israel disputes this interpretation. The status of Jerusalem remains a especially contentious issue, with both Israelis and Palestinians claiming the city as their capital.
The UK’s historical involvement in the region dates back to the British Mandate for Palestine (1920-1948). While the UK has historically maintained close ties with Israel, recent years have seen growing criticism of Israeli policies towards Palestinians, particularly regarding settlement expansion in the West Bank.
Recent Developments & Potential Implications
Israeli Knesset Resolution: On July 23rd, the Israeli Knesset passed a resolution calling for the annexation of the West Bank, further complicating the prospects for a two-state solution.
France’s Position: The memorandum notes that if no further obstacles arise, France and the UK will become the seventh countries to recognize Palestine. (Sweden, Iceland, Bolivia, cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela have previously recognized palestinian statehood).
Hamas Disarmament: Previous British officials had called for the disarmament of Hamas and an end to its rule in Gaza, a demand not explicitly reiterated in the current memorandum.* Potential for Further Sanctions: The UK has not ruled out the possibility of further sanctions against Israeli officials or entities involved in actions deemed detrimental to the peace process.
This shift in UK policy represents a significant development in the Israeli-palestinian conflict. It remains to be seen how israel will respond and whether this move will encourage other nations to follow suit, potentially creating new momentum for a negotiated resolution. The situation is highly fluid and requires continued monitoring.
