UK's Starmer Backs Palestine Statehood with Conditions

Labour leader Keir Starmer is expected to announce plans to recognise Palestine as a state as early as today, according to reports from Jewish News.

However, unlike French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent declaration, Starmer’s proposal will come with specific conditions that must be met beforehand. These include the full release of hostages still held by Hamas and a clear assurance that the militant group no longer has control over Gaza.

Sources say Starmer believes the UK can play the role of a neutral mediator in any future peace process. While he remains committed to the eventual recognition of a Palestinian state, he insists it must be conditional on ensuring Israel’s security and the resolution of the hostage situation.

This development follows closely on the heels of Starmer’s recent meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump and comes amid the UK’s decision to suspend free trade negotiations and impose sanctions on two far-right Israeli ministers.

Macron’s similar stance last week triggered strong backlash from Israeli officials, who warned of possible retaliatory actions.