Turkish President Erdogan calls on British Prime Minister Starmer to advocate for an Israel-led ceasefire in Gaza
The United Kingdom has announced its intention to recognize the state of Palestine in September, according to an official government statement dated 29th July 2025. This decision aligns with the position of the UK's Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, who has expressed support for Palestinian statehood as an "inalienable right" and essential for peace.
However, it's important to note that as of early August 2025, the recognition is planned but not yet formalized. The UK is currently working with international partners on a peace plan related to Gaza and a two-state solution.
The announcement comes amidst a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where more than 145 lives, including 88 children, have been lost due to starvation since October 7, 2023. According to local health authorities, Israel's assaults have claimed over 60,000 Palestinian lives and injured over 146,260. Daily Israeli airstrikes continue to target vulnerable populations' shelters and civilian centers, exacerbating the crisis.
Israeli forces have also destroyed 88% of Gaza's civilian infrastructure, forcing many Palestinians to live in makeshift tents or overcrowded shelters lacking proper sanitation. As a result, infectious diseases are spreading rapidly among the population of 2.3 million residents.
The crisis in Gaza has drawn concern from global leaders, including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Erdogan spoke with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday and expressed his support for mediators' efforts to secure a cease-fire and advance negotiations. Turkey continues to send humanitarian aid to Gaza, reflecting Erdogan's concern over the unfolding humanitarian nightmare.
The move towards recognizing Palestine has gained support from many lawmakers in the UK. More than 250 of the 650 lawmakers in the House of Commons have signed a letter urging the government to recognize a Palestinian state. France is the first Group of Seven country and the largest European nation to formally recognize a Palestinian state, with pressure to follow suit mounting. French President Emmanuel Macron has announced that France will become the first major Western power to recognize a Palestinian state in September.
Reports suggest that Israel may respond negatively to the UK's recognition of Palestine, considering reducing defense cooperation with the UK if this recognition proceeds. The political and diplomatic repercussions of this decision remain to be seen.
In conclusion, the United Kingdom's recognition of Palestine is planned for September 2025, subject to change. The decision comes amidst a humanitarian crisis in Gaza and carries potential political and diplomatic repercussions with Israel. The move towards recognition has gained support from many lawmakers in the UK and other European nations, with France leading the way. The crisis in Gaza continues to draw international attention and concern, with leaders urging concrete steps to pressure Israel into a cease-fire and a two-state solution.
[1] UK government statement, dated 29th July 2025. [2] Reuters, "Israel may cut defense ties with UK if it recognizes a Palestinian state," 1st August 2025.
- The planned recognition of Palestine by the United Kingdom in September 2025 may affect defense cooperation with Israel, according to reports.
- European nations, including France, show growing support for recognizing a Palestinian state, with potential implications for world politics and general news.
- The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to escalate, with over 145 lives lost and infectious diseases spreading among the population due to inadequate sanitation, necessitating urgent action from world leaders.
