UK Poised to Recognize Palestinian State in September, Says Foreign Secretary

LONDON: The United Kingdom remains on course to formally recognize a Palestinian state in September, Foreign Secretary David Lammy is set to tell Members of Parliament on Monday, according to The Guardian.

Lammy is expected to confirm that officials will begin a formal assessment in the coming days on whether Israel has complied with conditions set by Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Starmer previously pledged that Britain would recognize Palestine before the start of the UN General Assembly on September 9, unless Israel made “substantive steps” to end the war in Gaza, agreed to a ceasefire, and committed not to annex parts of the West Bank.

However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government has taken a harder line, with reports indicating Israel may pursue annexation in the West Bank if the UK, France, and other countries proceed with recognition. The issue was reportedly discussed at Netanyahu’s Cabinet meeting on Sunday, though no specific timeline for annexation was announced.

A UK official told The Guardian, “We will assess all the factors relevant to recognition. But, as things stand, we’re on a pathway to recognition.”

Diplomatic sources suggested that Britain’s timeline is driven partly by the need to act in coordination with France. The Foreign Office has just over a week to complete its formal review of Israel’s position.

Meanwhile, Lammy warned of the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, describing it as a “man-made catastrophe” resulting from Israel’s refusal to allow sufficient aid deliveries.

“The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains catastrophic, with famine in Gaza City and women and girls bearing the brunt of the suffering,” Lammy said.

On Sunday, the UK announced an additional £3 million ($4.05 million) in aid to provide midwives and emergency medical supplies for new mothers in Gaza. However, Lammy stressed that the assistance would only reach civilians if Israel permitted greater humanitarian access.

“This funding can only have maximum impact if the government of Israel allows it,” Lammy added, calling on Israel to ensure the protection of civilians, healthcare workers, and medical infrastructure while enabling the safe delivery of lifesaving supplies.