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UK Sets September Ultimatum for Palestine Recognition as UN Summit Revives Two-State Drive

London’s conditional move seeks to leverage global consensus at the UN to secure an Israeli ceasefire in Gaza.

Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivers a statement inside No. 10 Downing Street on the day the cabinet was recalled to discuss the situation in Gaza, in London, Britain, July 29, 2025. REUTERS/Toby Melville/Pool
Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivers a statement inside No. 10 Downing Street in London, on July 29, 2025, the day the cabinet was recalled to discuss the situation in Gaza.
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Overview

  • The UN conference co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia has convened in New York with more than 100 governments backing a two-state framework, despite abstentions from Israel and the United States.
  • Following Macron’s pledge to recognise Palestine in September and Saudi Arabia’s $300 million aid commitment, the UK Cabinet approved a deadline for formal recognition unless Israel meets key demands.
  • Prime Minister Keir Starmer recalled ministers from recess to demand an immediate Gaza ceasefire, a West Bank annexation freeze and a roadmap for lasting peace negotiations ahead of the UN General Assembly.
  • Conference discussions extend beyond statehood to calls for Palestinian Authority reform, Hamas disarmament and broader Arab-Israeli normalisation by states yet to normalise relations with Israel.
  • The diplomatic push reflects mounting alarm over Gaza’s humanitarian catastrophe after more than 21 months of war, with officials warning that continued civilian suffering threatens the viability of a two-state solution.