UK MPs Push Lammy to Recognise Palestinian State

A cross-party group of United Kingdom lawmakers has called on newly appointed Foreign Secretary David Lammy to officially recognise Palestine as a state, arguing that the move would align with Britain’s long-standing support for a two-state solution.

A growing number of United Kingdom lawmakers are urging newly appointed Foreign Secretary David Lammy to formally recognise the State of Palestine, a move they say would reaffirm Britain’s commitment to a peaceful two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians.

The call comes shortly after the Labour Party’s return to power, with expectations that the new government could shift its foreign policy stance on the long-standing Israel-Palestine conflict. A cross-party group of Members of Parliament (MPs) sent a letter to Lammy, pressing him to take immediate diplomatic action and follow through on Labour’s pledge to recognise Palestine.

“We believe that now is the right moment to recognise the State of Palestine as a step towards justice, peace, and long-term stability in the region,” the MPs stated. They added that recognition would strengthen the United Kingdom’s role in advancing international law and supporting Palestinian rights.

The move has gained traction amid increasing global concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the wider region. Supporters of the initiative argue that recognising Palestine would send a strong political message that the UK supports equal rights and sovereignty for both Israelis and Palestinians.

Labour’s election manifesto had included a commitment to recognise Palestinian statehood “as part of efforts to achieve a negotiated two-state solution.” Now that the party is in office, many within Parliament and civil society expect the new government to act on this promise.

Foreign Secretary Lammy has not yet officially responded to the letter, but in previous statements, he has affirmed the UK’s support for a two-state solution. However, some critics have cautioned that unilateral recognition of Palestine without a broader peace agreement could strain relations with Israel and complicate future negotiations.

Still, advocates believe that recognition does not hinder peace but rather sets a foundation for serious talks. “Recognition is not a reward or a favour. It is a recognition of the right of a people to self-determination,” one MP said.

The letter to Lammy reflects a broader shift in international sentiment. Several countries, including Ireland, Norway, and Spain, have recently recognised Palestine, putting increased pressure on other European nations to follow suit. As the Foreign Office reviews its position, many are watching closely to see if the UK will take what could be a historic diplomatic step. The decision could reshape Britain’s role in the Middle East peace process and signal a new direction for UK foreign policy under the Labour government.