Recognise Palestine as a State and seek immediate ceasefire in Gaza

We believe it is imperative the UK Government acknowledges the rights of all Palestinian people and seeks to implement an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. Their suffering must end; they deserve basic human rights. Palestinians should live without fear and be allowed to make decisions about their future.

Infrastructure, including hospitals and homes are continuing to be destroyed on a huge scale, and people in Gaza are facing starvation. Medical supplies to treat injuries and disease are also running out. Children are scared, families displaced, and there are numerous reports of attacks on medical personnel. There are also concerns about many potential violations of humanitarian law.

Despite the glimmer of hope from January’s ceasefire, its collapse has only deepened the suffering in this ongoing conflict. Over 60,000 men, women and children have been killed in Gaza and more than 90% of the population have been displaced, many repeatedly.

We strongly oppose the expansion of Israel’s military operations and have demanded the Israeli government changes its course. There is no military solution to this conflict and Israel’s plan is morally indefensible, grossly disproportionate, and ultimately counterproductive. Despite claims by Israeli ministers, this approach will not bring the hostages home, as nearly all have been freed through negotiation, not force.

Israel suffered a horrific attack on 7 October 2023, and we have consistently supported its right to defend itself. However, this plan will neither eliminate Hamas nor ensure Israel’s security. Instead, it risks perpetuating the cycle of violence, leaving a generation traumatised and vulnerable to radicalisation. Opposing a war that has killed thousands of children is not rewarding Hamas.

While there are signs of limited aid resumption, Israel has blocked humanitarian assistance to Gaza for months, putting lives at risk and raising concerns about its commitment to international humanitarian law. Food, medicines and essential supplies are exhausted, with the population facing starvation. Gaza’s people must receive the aid they desperately need.

From our first day in office, this Government has pressed for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, to free the hostages and to bring relief, hope and recovery to civilians who have suffered so much. A negotiated solution is the only way to ensure long term security for both Israelis and Palestinians, and we urge all parties to return to negotiations. The Foreign Secretary has visited Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories three times since taking office, meeting with Israeli and Palestinian leaders, as well as families of hostages, victims of violence and members of the humanitarian community.

The UK will not give up on a two-state solution. This means both Israelis living in secure borders, recognised and at peace with their neighbours, free from the threat of terrorism and Palestinians living in their own state, in dignity and security, free of occupation. The two-state solution remains the only framework, for a just and lasting peace.

As the Prime Minister has announced, the UK will recognise the state of Palestine by the time of the United Nations General Assembly in September unless the Israeli government takes substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, agree to a ceasefire and commit to a long-term, sustainable peace, reviving the prospect of a Two State Solution.

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office