UK Officials Urge Israel to Avoid Retaliation After Palestine Recognition

Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has cautioned Israel against retaliating to the recent recognition of Palestine by the UK and its allies, urging the country not to expand settlements in the West Bank. This statement comes in light of the UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal’s decision to recognize Palestine on October 8, 2023, marking a significant diplomatic step.

Cooper emphasized that the recognition of Palestine is intended to enhance security and sustain the possibility of a two-state solution. She explained that the decision aims to respect the security needs of both Israel and Palestinians, stating, “We have been clear that this decision that we are taking is about the best way to respect the security for Israel as well as the security for Palestinians.”

International Reactions and Diplomatic Efforts

The UK government’s recognition of Palestine aligns with broader international efforts, as other nations, including France, are poised to make similar announcements at the United Nations. In response to worries that Israel might accelerate West Bank settlements, Cooper communicated directly with Israeli officials, reinforcing that such actions would be unacceptable.

In her remarks to the BBC, she stated, “It’s about protecting peace and justice and crucially security for the Middle East.” The UK plans to leverage the upcoming UN General Assembly to advocate for international support of a peace framework in the region, focusing on transitional governance and security measures to prevent Hamas from having a role in Gaza’s future governance.

While the UK government recognizes that this diplomatic step will not immediately alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza or impact the hostages taken by Hamas on October 7, 2023, it believes the move is vital for the long-term viability of a two-state solution, where Israel coexists with a Palestinian state.

Domestic and International Backlash

The announcement has prompted a spectrum of reactions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the UK’s decision, labeling it “absurd” and a “reward for terrorism.” In contrast, US President Donald Trump described the recognition as “rewarding Hamas,” reflecting concerns from some quarters about the implications of this diplomatic acknowledgment.

Families of hostages currently held in Gaza expressed disappointment, calling the recognition a “betrayal of humanity.” A senior Hamas official, Mahmoud Mardawi, welcomed the UK’s recognition, framing it as a victory for the Palestinian cause.

In response to the criticism surrounding Hamas, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer denounced the organization as a “brutal terror organisation” and affirmed plans to increase sanctions against it. Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy will represent the UK at the UN General Assembly, alongside Cooper and Energy Secretary Ed Miliband.

Critics, including Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey, have pointed out Starmer’s absence at this critical summit, suggesting that the Prime Minister should be present for such a historic moment in Britain’s foreign policy.

As the situation continues to evolve, the UK government remains committed to fostering an environment conducive to dialogue, aiming to enhance security for both Israelis and Palestinians while promoting peace in the region.