Although Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s announcement of the UK’s likely recognition of the State of Palestine at the United Nations in September has been welcomed by most supporters of the campaign for recognition now, a close look at the statement shows inconsistencies that are at best an embarrassment and at worst fodder for those who consider recognition a threat rather than a promise. Listing conditions that Israel could meet to avert the move, Starmer needlessly harmed the recognition campaign by framing it as a punitive measure rather than one that will benefit both peoples.

When Ireland, Spain, and Norway announced their countries’ decision to recognize the State of Palestine in May 2024, they clearly stated that the move was intended to be a practical step meant to keep the hope of a two-state solution alive and help the Israelis and Palestinians achieve peace. Slovenian Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon echoed this sentiment a week later, saying that her country’s decision on recognition was meant to deliver “a message of hope and peace.”

Announcing France’s intention to recognize Palestine on July 24, President Emmanuel Macron also stressed that the decision is in the interests of both sides, noting that it “reaffirms France’s commitment to the implementation of the two-state solution with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security” and that it is “the only path that can address the legitimate aspirations of both the Israelis and the Palestinians and establish a lasting peace in the Middle East.”

And then along........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)