Labour leadership and 220 British MPs urge PM Keir Starmer to recognize Palestine as a state

Labour leadership and 220 British MPs urge PM Keir Starmer to recognize Palestine as a state
[London, 27 July 2025] — Pressure is mounting on British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to formally recognize Palestine as a state in light of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Over 220 MPs — nearly a third of the House of Commons — led by Labour MP Sarah Champion, have signed a letter calling on the UK to recognize Palestine ahead of an upcoming United Nations conference.

The appeal is grounded in the UK’s long-standing support for a two-state solution. The letter states: “The UK must now clearly set out when and how it will implement its commitment to a two-state solution and work with international partners to make this a reality.”

Sarah Champion emphasized that while recognition alone will not resolve the conflict, it would represent a vital step toward peace. She said, “Recognition would send a strong message to the Palestinian people — that they are not alone, and that there is still hope for peace.”

However, in an opinion piece published Friday, Prime Minister Starmer described the situation in Gaza as “a humanitarian catastrophe” and announced plans for aid drops and the evacuation of severely ill children. Yet, he stopped short of supporting immediate recognition of a Palestinian state. He wrote, “Recognition should be part of a process that delivers lasting peace and security for both Palestinians and Israelis. It should be a tool to achieve maximum impact for those suffering — that must be our ultimate goal.”

Amid these developments, Scottish National Party (SNP) leader Stephen Flynn warned that if Starmer blocks recognition, the SNP would introduce a “Palestine Recognition Bill” once Parliament resumes in September — and force a vote if necessary.

This internal political pressure reflects a broader shift in European diplomacy. French President Emmanuel Macron announced this week that France will support Palestinian statehood at the United Nations General Assembly in September. While this decision drew sharp criticism from Israel and the United States, it was welcomed by pro-Palestinian advocates.

However, Germany and Italy have stated they are not currently in favor of such a move, instead emphasizing the need for a negotiated solution. Starmer has echoed similar sentiments, insisting that recognition should not be unilateral but part of a broader peace process.