UK to Recognise Palestinian State Today: British Media Reports

Britain is set to formally recognise a Palestinian state today, according to reports from UK media outlets, marking a landmark policy shift that has drawn fierce opposition from long-time ally Israel.

The United Kingdom has long been a firm supporter of Israel, but has altered its stance amid Israel's escalating offensive in Gaza, which was triggered by Hamas's unprecedented attack in 2023.

The tiny Palestinian enclave has since endured widespread devastation, mass casualties and acute food shortages, fuelling a severe humanitarian crisis.

In July, Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that Britain would proceed with formal recognition of the State of Palestine should Israel fail to take "substantive steps" towards a ceasefire with Hamas by the opening of the United Nations General Assembly in September.

He is expected to make the announcement on Sunday, as reported by several British media organisations, including the BBC and the Press Association.

Starmer had earlier remarked in July that the move would represent "a contribution to a proper peace process, at the moment of maximum impact for the two-state solution".

In retort, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lambasted him for rewarding "monstrous terrorism" and placating "jihadist" ideology.

The anticipated declaration precedes the UN General Assembly, where approximately 10 other nations—including Britain's G7 partner France—are also poised to extend recognition to a Palestinian state.

It comes as well amid Israel's ongoing push to seize Gaza City, the territory's principal urban hub, where the United Nations has warned of famine.

The war erupted following Hamas's assault on Israel on October 7, 2023, which claimed 1,219 lives—mostly civilians—based on an AFP compilation of official data.

Israel's counter-offensive has since claimed at least 65,208 lives, predominantly civilians, according to the Gaza health ministry's figures, which the United Nations deems credible.