British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced Tuesday that the United Kingdom will formally recognize the State of Palestine at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in September, unless Israel takes “substantive steps” to end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and recommit to a genuine peace process.

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The announcement followed an emergency cabinet meeting convened during Parliament’s summer recess, where Starmer cited the “intolerable suffering” of Palestinians and the collapse of negotiations as justification for the shift. He emphasized that recognition would not be unconditional, but rather a strategic move to revive the two-state solution and uphold international law.

Among the conditions set by London are:

• An unrestricted flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza

• A public renunciation of annexation plans in the West Bank and Jordan Valley

• A renewed dialogue with the Palestinian Authority

• A ceasefire and release of hostages held by Hamas

Starmer clarified that the UK does not equate the Israeli state with Hamas, which he blamed for the October 7, 2023 attacks. However, he stressed that Israel’s continued blockade and military actions have led to a “catastrophic failure of aid,” with starving children and collapsing infrastructure in Gaza.

The move aligns Britain with France, whose President Emmanuel Macron recently pledged to recognize Palestine at the same UN session. If carried out, both countries would become the first G7 nations to formally endorse Palestinian statehood, challenging Israel’s hardline stance and potentially deepening its diplomatic isolation.

Starmer’s decision also follows a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, who surprised observers by acknowledging “real starvation” in Gaza and calling for increased humanitarian efforts. Trump reportedly gave his blessing to Starmer’s plan, stating, “I don’t mind him taking a position”.

Despite growing support, the UK’s plan has faced criticism. Some officials warn that recognition could be seen as rewarding Hamas, while others argue it’s a necessary step to salvage the peace process. Over 250 British MPs have signed a letter urging immediate recognition, citing the urgency of the crisis and Britain’s historical responsibility in the region.

The British-Palestinian Committee (BPC) recently published a report detailing the UK’s deep military cooperation with Israel, including arms licensing and strategic coordination. While Britain has not directly participated in the violence, the report argues it has played an “influential role” in enabling it.

With over 60,000 deaths and widespread displacement in Gaza, the UK’s potential recognition of Palestine carries both symbolic and political weight. For Starmer, it’s a calculated effort to reignite a stalled peace process. For many Palestinians, it could mark a step toward long-denied self-determination.

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