Britain, Canada, and Australia announced on Sunday that they will recognize Palestine as a state after Israel failed to meet conditions, including agreeing to a ceasefire in the nearly two-year Gaza war.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on X that the move aims to “revive the hope of peace for Palestinians and Israelis” and advance a two-state solution. With this decision, London joins over 140 countries but risks straining ties with Israel and the U.S. The step is particularly significant given Britain’s historic role in Israel’s creation after World War II.
The recognition comes after Britain warned Israel in July that it would take this step unless Israel ended the Gaza crisis, allowed more aid, and committed to a peace process. Husam Zomlot, head of the Palestinian Mission in London, welcomed it as a “long-overdue recognition” and a step toward justice. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected the move, declaring there will “never be a Palestinian state,” and critics argued the decision could embolden Hamas.
The recognition could elevate the Palestinian Mission in London to embassy status and may also lead to restrictions on goods produced in Israeli settlements. Meanwhile, public opinion in Britain remains divided, with some praising the move as a step toward peace and others warning it undermines Israel.
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