UK to Recognise Palestinian State: Starmer’s Historic Announcement Likely on Sunday
Introduction
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to announce the formal recognition of the State of Palestine on Sunday, 21 September 2025, marking a significant shift in British foreign policy. This landmark move places the UK alongside numerous Western countries reassessing their positions amid the latest Gaza conflict, escalating humanitarian concerns, and the stalled Middle East peace process. The decision is backed by 147 United Nations member states, including India, reflecting growing international support for renewed peace efforts.
Background and Timing
Starmer’s announcement follows a surge of diplomatic activity ahead of the UN General Assembly, with France and Canada making similar decisions earlier this week.
During his recent state visit to the UK, US President Donald Trump publicly expressed his disapproval of Starmer’s plan to recognise Palestine, describing it as one of the few points of disagreement between the two leaders.
The UK government has conditioned the recognition on Israel meeting “certain conditions,” including a ceasefire, the reopening of humanitarian corridors, and steps toward a negotiated peace.
The decision reflects increasing domestic and international pressures on the UK to alter its longstanding policy of not officially recognising Palestinian statehood.
Domestic and International Reactions
The likely announcement news has drawn sharp criticism from the Israeli government, labelling it “one-sided” and a challenge to direct peace talks.
Within the UK, the move garners mixed reactions: Labour supporters largely back Starmer’s decision, while some opposition voices argue it could complicate security cooperation.
Public opinion polls suggest a growing British support for recognising Palestine, with a YouGov survey indicating 44% favour recognition compared to 18% opposed.
Political Implications and Strategic Context
Starmer has linked the recognition to a broader strategy aimed at re-energising the peace process, while simultaneously pledging new sanctions on Hamas, signalling a commitment to combating terrorism alongside recognising Palestinian nationhood.
Analysts see this as an effort to bolster the UK’s diplomatic influence in the Middle East, counterbalancing US ambivalence and Europe’s divided response.
The announcement is expected to impact UK-Israel relations, which have been traditionally strong, raising questions about future bilateral cooperation on security and trade.
What This Means for the Middle East Peace Process
Diplomatic observers note that formal recognition by a key Western power like the UK could encourage other European nations to follow suit, potentially shifting international norms.
Hamas and Palestinian leadership have welcomed the move, seeing it as a moral victory and diplomatic breakthrough.
However, peace advocates caution that recognition without concurrent efforts to resume direct Israeli-Palestinian negotiations risks deepening divisions and prolonging conflict.
Conclusion
The UK’s impending recognition of the Palestinian state marks a historic and contentious milestone in Middle East diplomacy, signalling a new phase in international responses to the conflict. Starmer’s announcement balances aspirations for peace with pragmatic security commitments, amid a volatile geopolitical landscape.
For detailed Middle East insights, see our special report on peace dynamics.
