Overview
- Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to announce recognition on Sunday ahead of the UN General Assembly, with France and nine other states set to follow on Monday.
- London is pairing the step with demands on Hamas to release all hostages, accept a ceasefire, renounce any role in governing Gaza and disarm, while preparing additional sanctions.
- Israel rejects the plan, with Benjamin Netanyahu saying it rewards terrorism, as US Republican leaders press allies to reverse course and President Donald Trump voices disagreement.
- Families of Israeli hostages urge a delay, saying the move complicates negotiations and has been celebrated by Hamas, though UK ministers insist recognition is not a reward.
- About 147 UN members already recognise Palestine, and recognition by the UK and France would be the first by permanent UN Security Council members and by G7 governments.