UK preparing to recognise Palestinian state as early as Friday
18 hours ago
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- The UK is preparing to recognise the state of Palestine as early as Friday, following Israel's failure to meet conditions like a Gaza ceasefire.
- Keir Starmer denies the timing is linked to Donald Trump's visit, despite Trump's disagreement with the UK's decision.
- Recognition will draw criticism from Israel, but the UK insists it envisages a disarmed Hamas-free Palestinian state with elections within a year.
- Starmer agrees with Trump on the need for a roadmap, emphasizing no place for Hamas in the future Palestinian government.
- The UK sees recognition as part of a package to achieve a safe Israel and a viable Palestinian state.
- The US opposes the UK's move, viewing it as symbolic and unhelpful, but Trump avoids public division with Starmer.
- The UK shifted its stance after consultations with France, setting conditions Israel was unlikely to meet, making recognition a timing issue.
- Britain's decision is driven by frustration with Israel's treatment of Palestinians and fears of annexation destroying Palestinian self-determination.
- The Palestinian flag will be unveiled at what will become the Palestinian embassy in the UK.
- UK recognition does not impose new legal obligations regarding Israel's occupation of Palestine.
- Critics argue recognition breaches the Montevideo criteria for statehood, lacking defined borders and a single government.
- Pressure may grow within Labour to take further action against Israel, including trade sanctions.