Calls mount for Keir Starmer to acknowledge Palestinian statehood

Sir Keir Starmer is under pressure to recognize Palestinian statehood promptly following France's commitment to do so in the coming months. A group of MPs, including Labour and Lib Dem members, have urged the Prime Minister to take a similar stance, arguing that statehood is an inherent right that should not be contingent on other factors.

However, two Conservative MPs on the foreign affairs committee believe that recognizing Palestinian statehood should be part of a broader, long-term solution to the Middle East conflict, aligning with the Labour government's position.

Sir Keir is scheduled to have an urgent call with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz today, amidst concerns of widespread starvation in Gaza. He has condemned the dire conditions in Gaza as "unspeakable and indefensible" and emphasized that statehood is an inalienable right.

The UK has not yet formally recognized a Palestinian state, unlike approximately 139 other countries. Some European nations and the United States have stated they would do so as part of efforts towards resolving the conflict in the region.

At the United Nations, Palestinian representatives have limited participation rights, and various international organizations, including the Arab League, recognize the Palestinian territory. Critics argue that recognition would mainly be symbolic without addressing issues such as the leadership and borders of a Palestinian state.

While Palestinian officials have welcomed France's decision to recognize statehood, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned that it could be used as a platform to threaten Israel. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has criticized the move as "reckless."

In a report, MPs on the foreign affairs committee have urged the UK government to recognize Palestinian statehood without delay, emphasizing that waiting for a perfect time is futile. The report was supported by Labour and Lib Dem members but not by Conservative MPs on the committee, who advocate for recognition within a two-state solution framework.

Around 60 MPs and London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan have called for immediate recognition of Palestinian statehood. Various political leaders, including Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey and SNP's Westminster leader Stephen Flynn, have also voiced support for recognizing an independent Palestinian state.