The United States has urged the UK and its allies to reconsider plans to recognise a Palestinian state, warning that such a move could embolden Hamas and undermine Israel’s security.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is expected to announce the UK’s formal recognition as early as Sunday, coinciding with the UN General Assembly’s opening in New York. Starmer had pledged in July to move ahead with recognition if Israel failed to take substantive steps toward peace in Gaza. With the conflict intensifying and reports of famine in Gaza City, his government is pressing ahead.
Republican leaders in Washington, including Speaker Mike Johnson, Elise Stefanik, and Senator Rick Scott, have sent letters to the UK, France, Canada, and Australia urging them to block recognition. Johnson called the move “baffling and deeply troubling,” arguing it would reward Hamas before hostages are returned.
Israel has also voiced strong objections. President Isaac Herzog warned that recognition would not benefit Palestinians and could be misinterpreted as support for Hamas. Despite criticism, Sir Keir reiterated that Hamas has “no part in any future governance of Palestine” and stressed the UK’s backing for a two-state solution.