Great Britain to recognize Palestinian state after Trump's visit

The United Kingdom plans to recognize the Palestinian state in the coming days following the visit of US President Donald Trump, reports The Times newspaper.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer had already linked this step in the summer to Israel neither agreeing to a ceasefire nor beginning a lasting peace process. France, Canada, and Australia are also preparing to recognize Palestine. Israel criticizes this move, calling it a “reward for Hamas,” even though the war in the Gaza Strip has already claimed more than 65,000 lives.

The US has made clear its opposition to recognition by Western countries. The UK has long supported the two-state solution, but links recognition of Palestine to concrete steps by Israel. According to British media, the recognition is primarily a symbolic show of support for peace and a call for the resumption of humanitarian aid.

More than 140 UN member states already recognize Palestine. The UK is expected to officially announce its decision before the UN General Assembly in September.

(reuters, est)