Starmer Faces Rising Pressure from 220+ MPs to Recognise Palestinian State

Over 220 MPs from across nine parties have signed an open letter urging PM Starmer to recognise Palestine before the upcoming UN summit

The letter was led by Labour MP Sarah Champion and reflects a rare cross-party consensus in support of Palestinian statehood

MPs highlighted the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza, arguing recognition would send a powerful signal of solidarity

While affirming that Palestinian statehood is an “inalienable right,” Starmer insisted recognition should await maximum utility in peace negotiations

Senior ministers, including Angela Rayner and Yvette Cooper, are also urging an accelerated timeline for recognition

France has announced plans to recognize Palestine at the UN in September, setting diplomatic precedent and increasing pressure on the UK

UK's recognition plan remains tied to ceasefire, hostages’ release, and long-term two-state solution goals