Keir Starmer has turned down requests from MPs to swiftly acknowledge a Palestinian state, as US President Donald Trump arrived in the UK amid the ongoing severe conditions in Gaza.
Approximately 221 Members of Parliament have written a letter encouraging the UK Government to acknowledge the state of Palestine during a UN gathering next week.
The UK would emulate France’s actions if it did so, although Trump stated that French President Emmanuel Macron’s declaration would “not make any difference” before his arrival in the UK yesterday.
Sarah Champion, a senior Labour member of parliament who helped organize the multi-party letter, stated that acknowledgment “would convey a strong symbolic message showing our support for the rights of the Palestinian people.”
Although the Prime Minister stated he was “clear” in his desire to witness a Palestinian state, he emphasized that this must be part of a “broader strategy that eventually leads to a two-state resolution and long-term security for both Palestinians and Israelis.”
The UK and its allies need to collaborate to establish peace, he mentioned, comparing the initiative to the coalition of willing nations backing Ukraine.
Keir is set to meet Trump on Monday, as the American president remains in Scotland prior to a complete state visit later this year.
On Friday night, as international frustration grows regarding the food shortages in Gaza, the Prime Minister also indicated that the UK may be involved in delivering assistance to Gaza via air.
He expressed approval of Israel’s statement that it would permit aid to be dropped by parachute to ease hunger in Gaza.
The Taoiseach stated that the move had “arrived far too late,” but he emphasized that the UK will “do everything possible to get assistance through this channel.”
Britain is currently collaborating with Jordan to transport aid onto aircraft, the Prime Minister stated, while also mentioning that children from Gaza requiring specialized medical treatment will be brought to the UK for care.
In a video message published on Friday, Starmer clearly expressed his wish for a ceasefire.
He stated: “I am aware that the British public is deeply disturbed by the current situation. The pictures of hunger and hopelessness are completely shocking.”
The refusal to provide assistance to children and infants is entirely unacceptable, similar to the ongoing detention of hostages being entirely unacceptable.
In a statement issued together with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and France’s Mr. Macron, the Prime Minister called on Israel to cease limiting the movement of aid into Gaza.
A conversation among the three leaders was anticipated on Friday, but has been moved to the weekend.
Peace negotiations led by the United States in Qatar ended early on Thursday, as Washington’s special representative Steve Witkoff criticized Hamas for showing “no willingness to achieve a truce.”
The agreement being considered is anticipated to involve a 60-day pause in hostilities, with increased humanitarian aid provided while talks continue towards a permanent ceasefire.
