In a significant diplomatic shift, the UK is set to formally recognize a Palestinian state this Sunday, signaling a response to the worsening humanitarian conditions in the region.

This anticipated announcement by Prime Minister Keir Starmer comes after Israel has not met previously outlined conditions and amidst increasing pressure from both the United States and the families of hostages held by Hamas.

Starmer stated in July that if the situation did not improve before the UN General Assembly convenes next week, he would take this historic step.

The UK's decision is underscored by ongoing military operations in Gaza and alarming Israeli plans to expand settlements in the West Bank, which threaten the viability of a two-state solution.

Labour leaders emphasize that this recognition of Palestine is not an endorsement of Hamas and that the militant group will have no part in Gaza’s governance. Sanctions against Hamas are expected to be intensified, alongside calls for the release of hostages.

David Lammy, the Deputy Prime Minister, stated, "The recognition of a Palestinian state is driven by the serious expansion of settlements and resulting violence in the West Bank, as well as concerning developments like the controversial E1 project, which undermines the two-state framework."

In the meantime, Israel has escalated its military actions in Gaza, reportedly leading to the deaths of at least 14 individuals overnight. Demonstrators in Israel are vocally urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to negotiate an end to the ongoing conflict.

As world leaders prepare for high-stakes discussions at the UN summit starting September 23, Starmer’s recognition move stands in stark contrast to the sentiments expressed by former President Trump's administration, which opposes such acknowledgment.

Initially, Starmer indicated that UK recognition would be conditional on Israel committing to a ceasefire and a long-term peace that enables a two-state solution, alongside allowing aid to flow into the region. However, with the current Israeli government opposing these conditions, they seem increasingly unattainable.

Despite growing international support, with 147 of the 193 UN member states recognizing the State of Palestine, the announcement has stirred backlash. Families of the 48 hostages have voiced their anguish, stating that this move complicates efforts to secure their loved ones' release.

In an open letter to Starmer, they expressed, "Your regrettable announcement has dramatically complicated efforts to bring home our loved ones. Hamas has already celebrated this as a victory and reneged on a ceasefire deal. We plead with you—please do not proceed until our families are back in our arms."

Criticism also surged from opposition parties, with Shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel accusing Starmer of bowing to internal pressures to consolidate his leadership.

Lammy asserted, "Regarding Gaza, we must ensure the hostages are released. There is absolutely no room for Hamas. The humanitarian crisis is dire, and we continue to urge Israel to allow more aid into Gaza while addressing the escalating situations of starvation and malnourishment."