Palestinians Skeptical of Starmer’s Pledge for Statehood Recognition

As Prime Minister Keir Starmer proposes recognition of a Palestinian state, skepticism abounds among Palestinians who feel recent UK moves do not address the realities on the ground exacerbated by Israeli settlement projects and violence.

The prime minister of the UK, Sir Keir Starmer, aims to present a plan to recognize a Palestinian state at the upcoming UN General Assembly, following similar commitments from France and Canada. This initiative seeks to revitalize the long-stagnant two-state solution, which has been reduced to an empty phrase since the Oslo peace process fell apart over two decades ago.

Driving through the West Bank makes it clear how deeply entrenched Israeli expansion has become, transforming the landscape and solidifying the obstacles Palestinians face in establishing a state. Today, over 700,000 Israelis live in settlements built since the 1967 Middle East war—efforts that were heavily funded and have drawn international condemnation, as they violate international law prohibiting occupiers from settling their citizens on occupied territory. Despite an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice deeming the occupation illegal, the current Israeli administration is pushing for new settlements.

In late May, Israeli ministers announced plans for 22 new settlements, with Defense Minister Israel Katz declaring it a "strategic move" to block the formation of a Palestinian state, labeling it a "Zionist" response to threats against Israel. His colleague, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, has made it clear that their idea of "sovereignty" translates to annexation of these territories, and he's gone so far as to suggest finding ways to remove Palestinians from the land.

Areas across the West Bank showcase varied development stages of settlements, many of which are influenced by a volatile mix of religious fervor and nationalist aggression. Reports indicate that violence against Palestinian communities has surged from extremist settler groups in recent months, with harrowing encounters becoming commonplace. In the Christian village of Taybeh, home to around 1,500 residents, many have fled, leaving behind a quasi-abandoned atmosphere compounded by fear of violence.

Kamal Tayea, a local resident contemplating the safety of his home after his car was burned by settlers, expressed deep skepticism about Starmer’s proposed recognition. He articulated that while British support is significant, the realities on the ground show little sign of change, as Israel routinely disregards international law and resolutions.

Revered Greek Orthodox priest David Khoury echoed the sentiments of his community, affirming their deep historical and emotional ties to the land. Despite the mounting pressure from settlers, Khoury declared, "Our roots are here. We can't move. Palestine is inside our blood."

Progressing toward Ramallah, I connected with Husam Zomlot, the Palestinian envoy to the UK, via Zoom. He celebrated the UK’s recognition plans as a renewal of international commitment toward the two-state solution. For Zomlot, this gesture could rectify some historical injustices stemming from British involvement in the region during its imperial era.

This sentiment contrasted sharply with voices from Israel, where far-right lawmakers criticized the UK’s move as undermining Israeli sovereignty and rewarding violence. Ultra-nationalist MP Simcha Rothman dismissively claimed Starmer’s approach would not bring peace but rather intensify conflicts.

In Taybeh, local citizens expressed gratitude toward Britain but also the sentiment that it may be too late for real change. A businessman summarized the pervasive pessimism: "Thank you Britain. But it's too late."