September 9, 2025Sep 9 Starmer backs Palestinian statehood, urges Gaza ceasefire UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer met Palestinian Authority (PA) President Mahmoud Abbas at 10 Downing Street on Monday, reaffirming Britain’s backing for Palestinian statehood while stressing the urgent need for a Gaza ceasefire. The two leaders discussed what Starmer described as the “intolerable situation in Gaza,” including widespread famine and civilian suffering. He reiterated his calls for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages held by Hamas, and a major increase in humanitarian aid to the enclave. Abbas welcomed Starmer’s commitment to recognize a Palestinian state at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly. However, Starmer tied recognition to Israel taking “substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza.” He also praised Abbas’s stated commitment to reform the PA, describing it as crucial for achieving long-term peace and stability. Both leaders agreed that Hamas has “no role” in the future governance of Palestine. The meeting came as the UK government issued its clearest position yet on Israel’s military campaign. In a letter to Parliament, Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy stated that Israel is not committing genocide in Gaza — a departure from the government’s previous stance that only international courts could decide. Lammy emphasized that Britain still has a duty under the Genocide Convention to prevent atrocities if there is a serious risk. Meanwhile, Abbas accused Israel of trying to “destroy all of Palestine” in recent comments to Saudi media. His London meeting with Starmer underscores ongoing diplomatic efforts to push for peace while divisions over Gaza’s future remain unresolved. Key Takeaways: Starmer pledged UK support for Palestinian statehood at the UN. Both leaders demanded a Gaza ceasefire, aid surge, and hostages’ release. UK ruled Israel’s actions in Gaza do not constitute genocide. Source: Jerusalem Post / Reuters
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