Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has issued a strong warning to Israel, urging the Netanyahu government not to annex any parts of the West Bank in response to the UK's recent declaration recognizing Palestinian statehood. Speaking to the BBC, Cooper highlighted the significance of this announcement, which came from Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, representing a shift in UK foreign policy now also echoed by Canada, Australia, and Portugal.
The move has drawn sharp criticism from Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Netanyahu, who decried the recognition as a 'reward for terrorism.' Despite these tensions, Cooper insisted that the UK's decision aims to bolster peace and security for both nations in the region and is not a pretext for further conflict.
With discussions accelerating at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Cooper plans to advocate for international consensus regarding a structured peace framework in the Middle East. She underscored the UK's commitment to ensuring that both extremists on either side do not disrupt the prospect of a viable two-state solution.
Amid the backdrop of ongoing violence and a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the UK government emphasizes that their recognition of Palestinian statehood does not equate to legitimizing Hamas, reiterating that any future governance must not involve the militant group. The importance of this diplomatic recognition is framed as a pledge to both the Palestinian and Israeli people, emphasizing a shared hope for improved relations.
As Cooper continues to navigate these complex diplomatic waters, global responses vary, with Palestinian leaders welcoming the UK's formal acknowledgment, which they hope will lead to a fruitful coexistence with Israel.
