London, 21 September 2025 – In a historic and highly significant move, the United Kingdom has officially recognised the State of Palestine, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer declaring that this recognition is essential to “revive the hope of peace and a Two State Solution.”
The announcement comes as violence in Gaza and the West Bank intensifies, with tens of thousands reported dead and the humanitarian situation reaching critical levels. The Prime Minister said Britain could not remain a bystander as “the possibility of peace” slips away.
🔹 Recognition of Palestine
“Today, to revive the hope of peace and a Two State Solution, I state clearly, as Prime Minister of this great country, that the United Kingdom formally recognises the State of Palestine,” he announced.
The UK joins more than 150 countries worldwide that have already recognised Palestine. Britain recognised Israel over 75 years ago, and this decision is framed as a balancing act — reaffirming the right of both Israelis and Palestinians to live in safety, dignity, and peace.
🔹 Criticism of Both Hamas and Israel
The Prime Minister did not shy away from condemning both Hamas and Israel’s actions. He labelled Hamas a “brutal terror organisation” with no role in Palestine’s political or security future.
At the same time, he strongly criticised Israel’s escalating military offensive in Gaza, calling it “utterly intolerable,” citing relentless bombardment, starvation, and the deaths of civilians, including thousands killed while attempting to collect food and water.
🔹 Humanitarian Action
The UK has begun evacuating injured Palestinian children to Britain for treatment under the NHS. The Prime Minister urged Israel to lift border restrictions and allow more humanitarian aid into Gaza, condemning what he described as “cruel tactics.”
🔹 Building Towards Peace
Acknowledging the deep division and anger that the conflict has sparked in Britain and globally, the Prime Minister urged unity, stating:
“We must reject hate. We must channel our efforts behind a peaceful future – the release of hostages, an end to the violence, and the revival of the Two State Solution.”
He confirmed that the UK is working with international and regional leaders on a Framework for Peace, including reforms to the Palestinian Authority and a roadmap from a ceasefire in Gaza to negotiations for a lasting political solution.
🔹 A Defining Moment
This recognition is being described as one of the most consequential UK foreign policy decisions in decades. Supporters see it as a bold step towards breaking the deadlock in the Middle East, while critics argue that the timing may strain London’s relations with Tel Aviv.
Regardless, the UK government insists the move is not a reward for Hamas, but rather a commitment to long-term peace and security for both Palestinians and Israelis.
The Prime Minister concluded his statement with a message of hope:
“Ordinary people – Israeli and Palestinian – deserve to live in peace, free from violence and suffering. Today’s recognition is a pledge that there can be a better future.”
