Will UK recognise Palestinian statehood after France? PM Keir Starmer under pressure
Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivers a speech during a reception in Downing Street, central London on May 19, 2025 following the UK-EU Summit earlier in the day. Britain and the European Union reached a landmark deal setting out closer ties on defence and trade, and launching a new chapter after the UK's acrimonious exit from the bloc five years ago. (Photo by Hannah McKay / POOL / AFP)
With France recognising Palestinian statehood, there is mounting pressure on British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to follow suit.
This comes amid Starmer's emergency call with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Friday over concerns about mass starvation in Gaza.
Starmer on Thursday acknowledged that statehood was an "inalienable right" while slamming the situation in Gaza as "unspeakable and indefensible". In the past, the PM had remarked that the UK's recognition of Palestine should be reserved for a time when it would have the "greatest impact".
However, UK MPs on the foreign affairs committee urged the government to recognise the statehood of Palestine "while there is still a state to recognise". They said the government should not wait for the perfect time as there will never be one.
This move was backed by all the six Labour MPs in the committee, including chairwoman Emily Thornberry, as well as two Liberal Democrats. However, two Conservative MPs insisted that the statehood recognition should be approved as part of a larger two-state solution to the conflict.
In 2024, Spain, Ireland, Norway and Slovenia recognised the statehood of Palestine. France would be the 142nd country to do so, according to AFP.
Macron's decision was slammed by the US and Israel as a "reward for terrorism". Hence, Starmer fears a similar backlash and is cautious in his steps. Israel has argued that the recognition of Palestinian state would endanger Israel's security.
Middle East