Egypt Daily News – In a significant political development in the United Kingdom, 221 Members of Parliament, many from the ruling Labour Party have called on Prime Minister Keir Starmer to formally recognize the State of Palestine. The appeal comes just one day after French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will officially recognize Palestine during the UN General Assembly in September.
Cross-Party Support in a Strong Appeal
In a joint letter signed by MPs from nine political parties, lawmakers urged the British government to take a historic step. The letter states:
“We urge you to formally recognize the State of Palestine at next week’s conference,”
referring to the UN summit set for July 28–29 in New York, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia.
The MPs acknowledged that the UK alone cannot create a free and independent Palestinian state, but stressed that British recognition would carry significant political and diplomatic weight. They also pointed to Britain’s historical role in the creation of Israel through the 1917 Balfour Declaration, stating:
“Since 1980, we have supported a two-state solution. Recognition would reinforce that position and fulfill our historic responsibility to the Palestinian people.”
Broad Political Support
The letter was signed by MPs from:
- The Labour Party
- The Conservative Party
- The Liberal Democrats
- Regional parties in Scotland and Wales
Despite growing international and domestic pressure, the UK government has maintained its position of supporting a two-state solution, but insists that current conditions are not suitable for official recognition.
Mounting Pressure on Downing Street
Prime Minister Starmer now faces increasing political pressure both within his own party and internationally. Critics argue that his administration must take a firmer stance, especially amid the ongoing war in Gaza and fears of a humanitarian catastrophe.
In a statement on Friday following a call with his French and German counterparts, Starmer said:
“Recognition of a Palestinian state must be one of the steps on the path to peace. There is no ambiguity about that. But it must be part of a broader plan.”
Macron’s Recognition Plan
President Emmanuel Macron announced last Thursday that France will officially recognize the State of Palestine during the UN General Assembly in September. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he said:
“In line with our historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, France has decided to recognize the State of Palestine.”
He stressed the need for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and large-scale humanitarian aid for Gaza. Macron also underscored the importance of disarming Hamas, securing Gaza, and ensuring long-term reconstruction.
The French leader noted that a viable Palestinian state must guarantee Israel’s security, be demilitarized, and operate under international oversight positioning recognition as a critical step toward Middle East stability.
International Movement
Macron’s declaration follows a trend of increased support for Palestinian statehood across Europe, despite Israeli opposition. While France moves forward with recognition, Germany has stated it is not prepared to follow suit in the near term, citing a focus on progress toward a negotiated two-state solution.
As momentum builds ahead of the UN summit, Britain’s position remains pivotal. The coming weeks may determine whether London joins a growing international chorus recognizing Palestine or continues to wait for what it sees as a more favorable diplomatic moment.
