Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has urged Israel against annexing parts of the West Bank in response to the UK’s decision to recognize Palestinian statehood. Speaking to the BBC, Cooper affirmed that she has clearly communicated to Israel that such action would be unwelcome.
The statement came just before Cooper’s attendance at a UN conference in New York, where France and other European countries are expected to make similar declarations in support of Palestinian statehood.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged the shift in UK policy on Sunday, as the UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal announced their recognition of a Palestinian state.
Netanyahu, Israel’s Prime Minister, criticized the moves, alleging they bolster terrorism.
In her conversation with the BBC, Cooper addressed concerns about Israel potentially using the recognition as a pretext for annexing the West Bank. She stressed that the decision was intended to secure both Israeli and Palestinian safety and advance peace and justice in the Middle East.
Cooper emphasized the UK’s commitment to fostering diplomatic efforts aimed at preventing a two-state solution from falling through. She underscored the moral obligation to oppose the devastation in the region.
The Foreign Secretary stated recognition of Israel was matched by the need to establish a Palestinian state, without expressing a timeline for the UK’s Consulate General in East Jerusalem to become an embassy. Diplomacy with the Palestinian Authority is underway.
Cooper’s remarks were made in New York, at the UN General Assembly, where leaders will discuss framing a Middle East peace plan. France and Saudi Arabia will co-chair proceedings on the two-state solution, reflecting previously stated French support for Palestinian statehood.
Starmer’s Sunday announcement aimed to reignite hope for peace and a two-state solution. The Israeli Prime Minister dismissed Palestinian statehood. The US also expressed disapproval, labeling the decision as a diplomatic gift to Hamas, in light of the group’s actions in October 2023.
The Foreign Secretary is expected to emphasize that Hamas should have no governmental or security role during the UN General Assembly. The decision to recognize Palestine was framed as a commitment to a better future for both Palestinians and Israelis, amidst continued conflict and suffering.
In the ongoing conflict, a UN commission of inquiry reported alleged genocide in Gaza. The report accused Israel of gross violations, while Israeli representatives dismissed it as politically motivated and factually incorrect.
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Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1wggrdn9dno?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
