On Tuesday, the British government reiterated that its position on the Middle East peace process remained consistent, following Foreign Secretary David Cameron’s suggestion that the UK might soon acknowledge a Palestinian state.
Mr. Cameron’s remarks received a positive response from the Palestinian ambassador in London, but they triggered criticism from Conservative MPs who argued that early recognition could be seen as rewarding Hamas for its violent actions against Israel.
Hamas initiated a significant conflict with Israel on October 7, leading to the loss of 1,140 lives, predominantly civilians, according to an AFP count of official data, and the abduction of 250 individuals. Subsequently, Israel launched a sustained military campaign resulting in the deaths of at least 26,751 people in the Palestinian territory, with a majority being women and children, as reported by the health ministry in Gaza under Hamas control.
David Cameron emphasized the importance of providing the Palestinian people with a political perspective during a reception for Arab ambassadors at the UK parliament on Monday. This statement comes amidst ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the Israel-Hamas conflict.
He stated that acknowledging a Palestinian state could solidify the two-state solution, which is currently dismissed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, into an irreversible course of action.
“We should begin delineating the characteristics of a Palestinian state—its components and operational mechanisms,” he remarked.
As this unfolds, we, along with our allies, will examine the matter of acknowledging a Palestinian state, potentially at the United Nations.
“This statement has the potential to cement the process irreversibly,” remarked Husam Zomlot, the Palestinian ambassador to the U.K., regarding Mr. Cameron’s remarks, deeming them a pivotal moment.
Theresa Villiers, a fellow member of the Tory party, argued that advancing the acknowledgment of a Palestinian state would effectively “reward Hamas’ atrocities,” contrasting with Mr. Cameron’s stance.
The UK has consistently endorsed a two-state solution, in alignment with UN resolutions, advocating for Israelis and Palestinians to coexist in separate nations.
Downing Street reiterated that the UK’s stance remains consistent.
“We’ve consistently stated our intention to recognize a Palestinian state when it contributes most effectively to the advancement of peace, and our dedication to the two-state solution,” stated the spokesman for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to the press.
Mr. Cameron, who served as prime minister from 2010 to 2016, is currently on a visit to the Middle East this week — marking his fourth trip to the region since assuming the position of foreign secretary in November.
