The UK is also preparing to recognise the state of Palestine after Israel failed to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and commit to a two-state solution. It's considered a significant shift in British foreign policy.

London

Britain has formally recognised Palestine, representing a significant change in its longstanding foreign policy. This decision follows a complex history in the region, including Britain's colonial role and the legacy of the Balfour Declaration. The move is supported by a substantial portion of the British public and has been a longstanding pledge of the ruling Labour Party, which views Palestinian statehood as essential for regional security.

While the recognition is largely symbolic, its value has increased amid ongoing conflict and public demonstrations. The British government emphasises that this step is not about rewarding any particular group but about contributing to a future two-state solution, aiming for peaceful coexistence between Israel and a sovereign Palestine.

Recognising Palestine is a major shift in British foreign policy

In 1917, Britain issued the Balfour Declaration, support for the creation of a national home for the Jewish people, alongside Palestinian Arabs. After the First World War, Britain took control of Palestine under a League of Nations mandate. British soldiers enabled Jewish settlers to drive out local Arab communities and tensions between Jews and Arabs deepened. In 1947, the United Nations voted to partition the land into separate Jewish and Arab states and just a year later, Britain withdrew its forces. The creation of Israel sparked war with neighbouring Arab states and more than 700,000 Palestinians were expelled or forced to flee from their homes. For many, it was Britain's historical colonial role in the region that gives it a greater responsibility now than other nations. Britain has watched and debated, but never formally recognised a Palestinian state. So why now? Now is the right time because we can't wait until tomorrow and I think it can lead to better things. It can lead to better thinking. It can lead to greater cooperation between Europeans, Americans, Arabs, global south and I hope and want it to lead to a better life for ordinary Israelis and for ordinary Palestinians. Recognition of Palestine has long been a pledge of the ruling Labour Party. Their election manifesto describes Palestinian statehood as an inalienable right, essential for Israel's long-term security. And the pressure is not only political. Demonstrations have filled Britain's streets since the war in Gaza began. 44% of Britons believe the UK government should recognise Palestine as an independent state. Only 18% disagree. But many feel Prime Minister Keir Starmer has dragged his heels on recognition and restricting arms sales to Israel. Recognition is a largely symbolic step but the value of that symbolism has increased. The government insists this is not about rewarding Hamas. It's about contributing to a future two-state solution. One that sees a safe and secure Israel living alongside a viable and sovereign Palestine. Britain's recognition will not end the conflict but for many it marks a symbolic step in acknowledging the Palestinian struggle for statehood. Charlie Angela, Al Jazeera, London.

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Breakdown