Starmer: UK to Recognize Palestine if Israel Doesn't Agree to Ceasefire

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that the UK will recognize the State of Palestine in September unless the Israeli government takes steps to end the situation in Gaza and achieve a ceasefire.

According to a government statement, Starmer emphasized that there is no equivalence between Israel and Hamas, reiterating demands for the release of hostages, a ceasefire, and the disarmament of Hamas.

France welcomed London's intention, while the Israeli Foreign Ministry called the decision a "reward for Hamas."

Starmer had a telephone conversation with Benjamin Netanyahu before the announcement.