Britain announced it will recognize a Palestinian state at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in September unless Israel takes immediate steps to ease suffering in Gaza, halt hostilities, and commit to a two-state peace process. Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s warning follows mounting global outrage over a worsening humanitarian crisis, with starvation spreading amid Israel’s nearly two-year war with Hamas.
The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has raised alarms that Gaza is approaching famine conditions, reporting severe malnutrition and hunger-related deaths. Gaza health authorities state over 60,000 Palestinians have been killed since Israel’s offensive began following Hamas’ October 2023 attack, which left 1,200 Israelis dead and 251 taken hostage. The death toll includes many civilians, with thousands more believed buried under rubble.
France recently recognized Palestinian statehood, intensifying pressure on Israel, which condemned Britain’s move as a “reward” for Hamas. The U.S., Israel’s closest ally, has no plans to follow suit, with President Donald Trump stating he “does not mind” Britain’s decision but avoiding commitment to Palestinian state recognition.
Despite Israel announcing limited aid measures, the U.N. World Food Programme reports only half of requested supplies are entering Gaza, with widespread shortages of food and medicine. Humanitarian groups warn that famine thresholds have already been reached, as images of starving children fuel global calls for action. Israel denies allegations of deliberate starvation, blaming Hamas for aid misappropriation.
The conflict, the deadliest in Israel’s history, has flattened much of Gaza and sparked regional instability. As international pressure builds, Britain’s ultimatum underscores growing global isolation for Israel amid calls for a ceasefire and unrestricted humanitarian access.