London, July 30, 2025 – The United Kingdom has firmly rejected global criticism that its plan to recognize a Palestinian state is a reward to Hamas. British leaders insist the move is focused on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and long-term peace in the region.

Images of starving children in Gaza have shaken the international community. A hunger monitoring group recently warned that a deadly famine is unfolding, demanding urgent global intervention. The UK says its policy shift is in response to this growing humanitarian disaster.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer issued a September deadline to Israel, urging major steps toward peace, or the UK will proceed with state recognition at the UN General Assembly. Israel condemned the move, claiming it benefits Hamas and undermines victims of past violence.

British Transport Minister Heidi Alexander responded strongly to that criticism in several media interviews. She clarified: "This is not a reward for Hamas, a terrorist group. It's about saving innocent Palestinians — especially starving children in Gaza — and restoring humanitarian aid."

Starmer stressed in a televised statement that the opportunity for a two-state solution is quickly vanishing. He emphasized the need for both Israel and Palestine to pursue peaceful coexistence and prevent further instability in the region.

France has also pledged to recognize Palestine in September. Meanwhile, the UK maintains that recognition should happen when it has the strongest impact. Now, Britain believes that time has come — as a step toward peace, not in support of extremism.

Source: https://www.arabnews.com/node/2609973/world