UK May Recognize Palestine State in September Without Cease-fire

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that Britain will recognize a Palestinian state in September unless a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas is reached. This announcement, a significant shift in policy, is intended to exert pressure on Israel to halt the conflict. Starmer linked this potential recognition to a broader European effort and outlined conditions for a lasting peace, including Hamas releasing hostages and accepting no future role in Gaza. He also stipulated that Israel must agree not to annex the West Bank and commit to a peace process leading to a two-state solution, conditions that the current Israeli government is unlikely to meet.