Starmer to Speak with Macron and Merz as France Commits to Recognizing Palestinian State

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is preparing to speak with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz following France’s landmark decision to recognize the State of Palestine. Macron announced that France will become the first G7 nation to formally acknowledge Palestinian statehood, with a declaration planned for the United Nations General Assembly in September. He described the decision as a crucial step toward reviving the stalled peace process and reinforcing the legitimacy of a two-state solution. The move has intensified diplomatic activity across Europe and placed pressure on the UK to follow suit.

While Starmer has voiced support for Palestinian statehood, calling it an “inalienable right,” he has not committed to a timeline. His government maintains that recognition must be tied to achieving a lasting ceasefire in Gaza. However, growing pressure within his cabinet is challenging this position, with several senior ministers urging quicker action in alignment with international developments. The upcoming call with Macron and Merz is expected to center on coordinated diplomatic responses and the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached a critical level, with severe food shortages and reports of deaths from starvation. Starmer has labeled the conditions “unspeakable and indefensible,” and aid organizations have issued dire warnings of a looming famine if urgent relief is not delivered.

France’s recognition announcement is seen by many as a diplomatic shift that could increase pressure on Israel and its allies to accelerate peace efforts and humanitarian access.
The reaction from Israel has been swift and severe, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemning the French decision as a dangerous precedent that rewards terrorism. The United States also expressed strong opposition, calling France’s move reckless and counterproductive to peace. In contrast, the Palestinian Authority welcomed the announcement, describing it as a long-overdue acknowledgment of Palestinian rights. Even Hamas issued a rare note of approval, interpreting the development as evidence of growing international support.
France’s declaration marks a watershed moment in European foreign policy and could serve as a catalyst for broader recognition among other EU states. Starmer’s hesitation reflects a cautious approach aimed at maintaining alignment with key allies, but it also leaves the UK at a diplomatic crossroads. The upcoming trilateral dialogue with Macron and Merz may clarify whether Britain is willing to take a more assertive stance on Palestinian statehood or remain tethered to a more conditional strategy based on ceasefire progress. As humanitarian urgency escalates and international alliances shift, the UK's position could carry significant weight in shaping the next phase of Middle East diplomacy.

Sources:
Reuters, Associated Press