Overview

• Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to announce recognition later Sunday after judging Israel failed to meet July conditions on a ceasefire and aid access.
• France, Canada, Australia, Portugal and Belgium are preparing parallel recognitions at the UN this week, with Portugal also set to declare recognition on Sunday.
• The United States and Israel oppose the move, with Benjamin Netanyahu calling it a reward for terrorism and President Donald Trump voicing disagreement during his UK visit.
• UK officials say recognition is largely symbolic but enables treaties and ambassadorial status, and the government plans new sanctions on Hamas while stressing the group must have no role in future governance.
• Families of Israeli hostages have urged a delay, while Germany and Japan say they will not join such recognitions in the short term despite backing a two-state solution.