UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Preparing to Recognize Palestine

London – British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is preparing to formally recognize Palestine, with the official announcement expected over the weekend, following the conclusion of Donald Trump’s state visit to the United Kingdom.

Starmer has previously indicated that Britain would support the recognition of Palestine ahead of the UN General Assembly in New York later this month if humanitarian conditions in Gaza did not improve. World leaders are set to gather at the UN summit starting 23 September.

According to reports, the recognition announcement was delayed to avoid overshadowing Starmer’s joint press conference with Trump at Chequers on Thursday.

Recognition Despite US Concerns

The decision marks a potential shift in British foreign policy, placing the UK at odds with Washington, which opposes recognizing Palestine at this stage. However, several countries—including France, Australia, and Canada—are expected to consider similar declarations during the UN meeting.

In July, under pressure from Labour MPs concerned about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Starmer pledged to move toward recognition. At the time, he set conditions for Israel:

• Agreement on a ceasefire

• Commitment to a two-state solution

• Allowing the UN to resume aid deliveries

These conditions remain unmet as the conflict continues, with thousands displaced by the ongoing military offensive. Currently, 147 out of 193 UN member states already recognize Palestine as a sovereign state.

Reaction in the UK

London Mayor Sadiq Khan recently described the crisis in Gaza as a “genocide,” citing reports from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the United Nations commission of inquiry. Speaking at a public event, Khan said the humanitarian situation—with widespread famine, a collapsed health system, and thousands of civilian deaths—cannot be ignored.

What Comes Next

If the UK proceeds, the announcement could significantly influence international discussions at the UN General Assembly later this month. Recognition of Palestine by a major European power may also encourage other nations to follow suit, shaping the global conversation on the path toward a two-state solution.