UK edges closer to recognition of Palestinian state
The UK Foreign Secretary stated on April 30th that the British government is discussing the recognition of the Palestinian state with France and Saudi Arabia, ahead of a United Nations conference in New York.
As reported by Middle East Eye on May 1st, David Lammy told the House of Lords’ International Relations and Defence Committee that the continued lack of state for the Palestinian people was unacceptable.
He also reaffirmed the UK’s support for a two-state solution. Lammy confirmed that the UK, France, and Saudi Arabia were cooperating to “keep two states alive” ahead of the conference scheduled for June 2nd to the 4th.
According to the Middle East Eye on April 30th, despite Lammy’s comments, UK Middle East Minister Hamish Falconer rejected calls from multiple MPs for the UK to immediately recognise a Palestinian state.
Speaking in parliament following the Palestinian Prime Minister, Mohammad Mustafa’s, visit to London, Falconer said the recognition should follow practical developments, including agreements on governance and security.
He stated that “while we are committed to the inalienable right of the Palestinians to a state… there are vexed issues at the centre of what a Palestinian state would look like.”
Middle East Eye via AFP reported on April 10th, as cited by Levantis that France’s intention to recognise Palestinian statehood by June had received support from the Palestinian Authority. Palestinian Minister of State, Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, described France’s position as consistent with supporting Palestinian rights and the two-state solution.
In contrast, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly condemned French President Emmanuel Macron’s plan to recognise a Palestinian state, describing it as a dangerous move that threatens Israel’s existence, according to France24 and AFP on April 14th.
France24, AFP, Middle East Eye
