The United Kingdom is preparing to recognize a Palestinian state during the current parliamentary term, which ends in 2029, according to Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds. The move is expected to support efforts toward an Israeli-Palestinian peace agreement.
In an interview with Sky News, Reynolds confirmed that recognition of Palestinian statehood “in this parliament” is possible if it helps deliver a breakthrough in the peace process. “We want to do it, and we will do it,” he said, but stressed the UK must act strategically. “We can only do this once,” he warned. “If it’s tokenistic and doesn’t end the conflict, what’s next?”
Mounting Political Pressure and Global Momentum
Reynolds’ remarks come as Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces growing domestic and international pressure over the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. More than 200 British MPs from across nine political parties signed a letter last week urging immediate recognition of a Palestinian state, citing the UK’s historical responsibilities.
France has already pledged to recognize Palestine, with President Emmanuel Macron stating that France will act within months. While Starmer has called Palestinian statehood an “inalienable right,” he has resisted setting a firm date, stating that recognition should occur “at a time most conducive to the prospects of peace.”
Gaza Humanitarian Crisis Sparks Urgency
The political momentum is driven in part by the escalating humanitarian situation in Gaza. Israel is facing global condemnation over widespread famine and images of starving children. The UK government is under intense scrutiny to take concrete diplomatic action.
Reynolds acknowledged that several countries have already recognized Palestinian statehood without halting the violence. “To be frank, it hasn’t stopped the appalling scenes,” he said. “So we’ve got to use this moment to get the breakthrough we need — and the U.S. is really important in that.”
Starmer to Meet Trump for Peace Talks Push
Prime Minister Starmer is set to recall his Cabinet this week for urgent discussions on Gaza. On Monday, he will meet U.S. President Donald Trump in Scotland to discuss revitalizing American involvement in peace negotiations between Israel and Hamas, following the deadly October 7, 2023 attacks.
The meeting is expected to play a key role in shaping the UK’s next diplomatic steps, including the timing and impact of Palestinian state recognition.
