Calls are mounting among Members of Parliament for the United Kingdom to immediately recognize Palestine as a state. These calls are expected to intensify following French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent announcement of France’s plan to do so, as reported by the BBC.
Pressure on Starmer’s Government to Follow France
Many Labour Party MPs, including those from Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s own party, have stated that the UK “should not lag behind” after the French decision. On Friday morning, a report from MPs on the Foreign Affairs Committee also explicitly called for immediate recognition.
Should the UK proceed with recognition, it would place itself in direct opposition to the United States’ stance, which has strongly criticized Macron’s move.
Downing Street’s Immediate Focus on Gaza Ceasefire
The BBC currently assesses that the British Prime Minister’s office appears firm on its position that a ceasefire agreement must be reached first. Downing Street’s immediate focus seems to be on the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Starmer is scheduled to hold “emergency” phone calls today with President Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, following heightened concerns related to the latest developments in the region.
