Britain, France Move Towards Recognizing Palestinian Statehood

Britain has indicated it will recognize a Palestinian state if a cease-fire in Gaza isn't reached by September, following France's similar announcement. These moves are seen by analysts as a response to Israel's conduct in the Gaza war, which has caused widespread devastation and deprivation, and its actions in the West Bank, including increased military activity, settlement expansion, and settler violence. Statehood, based on international law, requires a permanent population, defined territory, a government, and the capacity for international affairs. While territorial boundaries are disputed, many international law experts believe the basic criteria for Palestinian statehood are met, with a permanent population and land in existence.