Sir Keir Starmer is expected to announce the UK's recognition of a Palestinian state in a statement on Sunday afternoon.
The move comes after the prime minister said in July that the UK would shift its position in September unless Israel met conditions such as agreeing to a ceasefire in Gaza and committing to a long-term sustainable peace deal that delivers a two-state solution.
This decision signifies a substantial change in British foreign policy; previously, successive governments maintained that recognition should occur as part of a peace process and at a moment of maximum impact.
The move has faced fierce criticism from the Israeli government, hostage families, and some Conservative MPs, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stating that such actions reward terror.
UK ministers, however, emphasize a moral obligation to maintain hope for a lasting peace deal in light of worsening conditions in Gaza, described by some as intolerable due to images depicting starvation and violence.
Recent US statements, including from President Trump, have echoed concerns regarding the UK’s forthcoming recognition, highlighting longstanding political sensitivities surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The Palestinian Authority's president, Mahmoud Abbas, welcomed talks of recognition during a recent visit, as government sources indicated that the ongoing struggles faced by the Palestinian people prompted the UK to act now. The situation is complicated by the backdrop of increased violence and humanitarian crises in the region, as well as international criticism of Israel's settlement operations in the West Bank.
Amidst the ramping tensions, various factions are urging caution and calling for undue recognition to be conditioned upon specific actions from Hamas, particularly concerning the release of hostages taken during recent conflicts.
As the recognition announcement approaches, the British government continues navigating intricate diplomatic waters while responding to diverse domestic and international pressures.
