If France is going to recognize a Palestinian state, why won't the U.K.?
As Europe debates how to respond to the Gaza conflict, the question of recognising a Palestinian state has split key allies. In Haaretz, our researcher Dr Azriel Bermant examines why the United Kingdom, despite working closely with France, is holding back from joining President Emmanuel Macron’s decision to recognise Palestine.
Dr Bermant explains that although Britain has halted certain arms sales to Israel, suspended trade negotiations, and sanctioned violent settlers and far-right ministers, it continues to hold back from recognising Palestine, unlike France. He argues that this restraint is rooted in London’s determination to preserve its special relationship with Washington, particularly as President Trump remains a steadfast supporter of Netanyahu. Starmer, who has gone to great lengths to strengthen ties with Trump, is reluctant to risk a diplomatic rift over a move unlikely to change realities for Palestinians.
Bermant notes that this deference to U.S. policy is longstanding, cutting across party lines, yet history shows British attempts to influence American Middle East strategy — from Thatcher to Blair — have rarely succeeded. Starmer may face the same fate, but for now, Britain sees working through Washington as its only leverage. Read the full analysis on Hareetz.com
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