The UK government has defended its plan to recognize a Palestinian state, insisting the move is legally sound despite concerns raised by 40 members of the House of Lords. Business Minister Gareth Thomas stated that the decision is a “political judgment” aligned with the criteria for statehood under the 1933 Montevideo Convention, a treaty already supporting the recognition of Palestine by over 140 countries.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Tuesday that the UK would recognize Palestine before the UN General Assembly in September unless Israel met specific conditions outlined in the UK’s eight-point peace plan. These conditions include substantive steps to end the Gaza conflict, a ceasefire, a commitment to no annexation in the West Bank, and a commitment to a long-term peace process.
However, a group of prominent peers, including high-profile lawyers such as Lord Pannick QC, challenged the government’s legal basis for recognition in a letter to Attorney General Richard Hermer. They argue that recognizing Palestine might violate international law due to uncertainties surrounding its defined territory, unified government, and capacity for international relations. The letter highlights the lack of clearly defined borders and the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Fatah, questioning the existence of a single, effective government. The peers emphasized that a selective application of international law would undermine its integrity.
Minister Thomas countered these concerns on Times Radio, asserting the existence of a “clear population” in Palestine and that recognition would be based on the 1967 borders. He reiterated the government’s commitment to recognition in September if Israel fails to meet the pre-conditions for peace. The government’s position, therefore, hinges on the actions of Israel and its commitment to a two-state solution. The coming weeks will be critical as the UK government navigates these legal and political challenges before its planned recognition of Palestine at the UN.
