Britain's Badenoch accuses Starmer of rewarding terrorism with the U.K.'s impending recognition of Palestine.
In a significant political development, Sir Keir Starmer, the Labour leader, is expected to formally recognize a Palestinian state this Sunday. However, this decision has drawn criticism from the Conservative party, with Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative leader, accusing Starmer of giving Hamas a 'reward for terrorism.'
The potential recognition of Palestine by the UK government could cause a diplomatic row with Israel and the US, as both nations have historically maintained a strong alliance with Israel. Israeli President Isaac Herzog has stated that recognizing Palestine 'won't help one Palestinian, one hostage' and could be 'adversely interpreted by Hamas.'
Sir Keir has been vocal about his stance on Hamas, stating that the group does not want peace and should have no part in any future governance in Palestine. He also made it clear that he made his position on recognizing Palestine at the end of July, contingent on the US taking 'substantive steps' towards peace in Gaza.
However, Sir Keir has denied accusations that he was waiting for the US president to leave the UK before announcing recognition. During a joint press conference with the Prime Minister at Chequers, Donald Trump, while disagreeing with recognition, did not repeat previous comments about it rewarding Hamas.
The situation in Gaza has deteriorated, with no ceasefire and a declaration of a famine in Gaza City. The expansion of US military operations has further exacerbated the crisis.
Badenoch, in her criticism, stated that Labour's foreign policy is to 'condemn our allies, indulge our adversaries, and hand away our sovereignty.' She also reaffirmed her support for Israel, stating, 'I will never apologize for standing by Israel when it strikes back against terrorism.'
Despite the controversy, the UK government is expected to announce its formal recognition of Palestine, possibly as early as Sunday. It remains to be seen how this decision will impact the UK's relations with Israel, the US, and Palestine.
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