Starmer Rejects Recognition of Palestine Despite Calls from MPs

London (Quds News Network)- UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has rejected calls to immediately recognize Palestine. His statement came Friday evening, just as US President Donald Trump arrived in Scotland and Gaza’s humanitarian crisis deepened.

Starmer said the UK would only recognize Palestine as part of a “negotiated peace agreement.” This disappointed many within his Labour Party who hoped he would follow France’s lead.

French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Thursday that France will recognize the State of Palestine. The move, which followed similar steps by Spain, Norway, and Ireland last year, triggered harsh reactions from both Israel and the United States.

Pressure on Starmer is mounting. A cross-party letter signed by 221 MPs urged him to declare recognition of Palestine during the upcoming two-state conference in New York, co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia. The letter was coordinated by Labour MP Sarah Champion, who called the move a “powerful symbolic message” of support for Palestinian rights.

However, Starmer remained firm. “Recognition must be part of a wider plan that delivers a two-state solution and lasting security for both Palestinians and Israelis,” he said.

According to Bloomberg, several senior UK ministers, including those in health, justice, and culture, have privately urged Starmer to move quickly on recognition. The Prime Minister is also under pressure from European allies and members of his own cabinet.

Labour MP Sadiq Khan and members of Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee echoed the demand. The committee said on Friday, “There will never be a perfect time. Delaying only weakens the UK’s position.”

Anger is rising inside the Labour Party. One MP told Reuters, “We are furious about Gaza. The UK is doing too little, too late.”

Meanwhile, Starmer hinted at new aid efforts, saying the UK may assist in airdropping humanitarian aid into Gaza; a method that has proven insufficient and dangerous. He welcomed Israel’s late approval of air-dropped aid but said, “It’s far too late.” He confirmed Britain is working with Jordan and will also evacuate injured Gazan children to the UK for treatment.