London: Joining more than 150 countries, the UK officially recognizes the state of Palestine, Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Sunday ahead of the UN General Assembly. "In the face of the growing horror in the Middle East, we are acting to keep alive the possibility of the peace and the two-state solution," Keir Starmer said in a video statement. He emphasized the need for a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable Palestinian state, expressing that currently, neither condition is met. Starmer declared that the moment for recognizing Palestinian statehood "has now arrived."

According to Anadolu Agency, Starmer stated, "So, today, to revive the hope of peace and a two-state solution I state clearly, as prime minister of this great country that the United Kingdom formally recognizes the state of Palestine." He highlighted the move as "a pledge to the Palestinian and Israeli people that there can be a better future," acknowledging the strong emotions that this conflict provokes. "Today we join over 150 countries who recognize a Palestinian state," he said.

Addressing the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, Starmer described the death and destruction as horrifying. He stressed that "the starvation and devastation are utterly intolerable," noting that the aid currently reaching the area is insufficient. Starmer renewed his call on the Israeli government to lift the restrictions at the border, urging, "Stop these cruel tactics and let the aid surge in."