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Tuesday, Jan 20, 2026

UK's Keir Starmer Condemns Israel and Calls for Palestinian State Recognition Amid Gaza Crisis

UK's Keir Starmer Condemns Israel and Calls for Palestinian State Recognition Amid Gaza Crisis

Pressure mounts on PM to formally recognize Palestine as suffering in Gaza reaches new depths.
The United Kingdom's Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, has issued a strong condemnation of Israel, marking his most severe criticism yet, amid escalating pressure within the government and internationally for Britain to officially acknowledge a Palestinian state.

This stance comes following French President Emmanuel Macron's announcement that France would recognize Palestine, and ahead of an emergency call involving Macron, Germany's Friedrich Merz, and Starmer concerning the deteriorating situation.Starmer emphasized the 'unspeakable and indefensible' humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza, characterized by severe starvation conditions, particularly affecting children.

This dire situation has led to a noticeable shift in Starmer's approach towards Israel, with his statement omitting any reference to Israel's right to self-defense or the hostages held by militant groups.The escalating political movement among major European countries reflects mounting global condemnation of Israel's actions in Gaza.

The crisis has led to at least 113 hunger-related deaths, including 82 children, according to Palestinian health officials.

Additionally, Israeli forces have been accused of targeting Palestinians at aid sites operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, a US-backed charity.In response to these developments, Starmer plans an emergency call with E3 partners (the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union) to address urgent measures for halting violence and facilitating food aid to Gaza.

He underscored the necessity for Israel to allow immediate access of desperately needed humanitarian aid into the enclave.Pressure on Starmer to recognize Palestine has been mounting, coming from within his own Labour Party, including Cabinet ministers, trade unions, and academics.

The Labour Party's manifesto from last year's general election also pledged recognition of Palestine once in office.

Senior figures like Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood have advocated for the benefits of recognition, arguing it would serve as a strong message to Israel.Starmer's shift towards a more definitive stance on recognizing Palestinian statehood reflects both political pressure and a response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

His actions align with international movements, particularly among European nations, calling for a two-state solution to ensure lasting peace between Palestinians and Israelis.
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