The United Kingdom is set to move forward with acknowledging a Palestinian state this month, given Israel’s lack of retreat. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy mentioned that the UK intends to fulfill its commitment to recognizing Palestine at the UN General Assembly unless progress is made on a ceasefire. There will be an official evaluation to determine if Israel has met certain criteria set by Keir Starmer, which includes addressing the dire situation in Gaza, agreeing to a ceasefire, and reintroducing the possibility of a two-state solution.
Mr. Lammy emphasized that the recognition of Palestine is grounded in the principle of a two-state solution, which Hamas opposes, refuting claims that it rewards Hamas or jeopardizes Israeli security. He stressed that stability and security come from defined borders, not prolonged occupation. In a parliamentary statement, Mr. Lammy criticized the Israeli Government for causing a “man-made famine,” warning of a potential widespread starvation crisis without immediate intervention.
Over 300 individuals, including 119 children, have succumbed to malnutrition since the beginning of July. Mr. Lammy urged for a significant humanitarian response to avert further fatalities, calling for essential aid organizations, humanitarian workers, and medical supplies to be allowed into Gaza. The UK will allocate an additional £15 million for aid and medical assistance in the conflict-ridden region through UK-Med and the World Health Organization in Egypt.
Efforts are underway to bring vulnerable children in need of medical treatment to the UK through the NHS, with the first patients anticipated to arrive “in the coming weeks.” Mr. Lammy highlighted the mounting pressure on the Israeli government to permit these medical evacuations, emphasizing the complexity and risk involved in extracting individuals from a war zone. He described the situation on the ground as extremely grim, with distressing scenes that are challenging to articulate.
This move by the UK comes amidst escalating tensions in the region and the urgent need for humanitarian assistance to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the conflict.
