London: In a significant political development, 220 British Members of Parliament have signed a letter addressed to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, urging him to officially recognise Palestine as a sovereign state. The initiative is being led by Labour MP Sarah Champion, who also chairs the International Development Committee,as per a report by the Roznama khabrein.
The letter stresses the increasing pressure on the UK government to take a decisive stance in recognising Palestine. The MPs argue that such a move would carry exceptional weight coming from Britain, which was responsible for the Balfour Declaration and served as the former mandatory power in Palestine.
The letter states: “Recognition of Palestine by the UK will be particularly meaningful given Britain’s historical role in the region. Since 1980, we have supported a two-state solution. Granting this recognition will strengthen that position and fulfil our historical responsibility under that mandate.”
This call follows France’s recent announcement that it will officially recognise Palestine in September. French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that he would formally declare recognition of the Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly, describing the move as essential for achieving a fair and lasting peace in the Middle East.
In contrast, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio rejected Macron’s statement, labelling it a hasty decision.
The letter to Starmer has garnered cross-party support, including signatures from moderate right-wing Conservative MPs, centrist Liberal Democrats, and members of regional parties from Scotland and Wales. The MPs further referenced the UK’s permanent seat on the UN Security Council and its global influence as reasons to take a leading role in supporting Palestinian statehood.
“Since 1980, we have consistently supported a two-state solution. Recognising Palestine will reaffirm this commitment and honour our historical responsibilities to the Palestinian people,” the letter concludes.
