London: President Mahmoud Abbas received a phone call from British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who informed him that Britain plans to recognize the State of Palestine in September before the UN General Assembly convenes, unless Israel takes significant steps to resolve the situation in Gaza and commits to peace.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, the recognition is contingent upon Israel allowing the United Nations to resume the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, agreeing to a ceasefire, and committing not to pursue annexation plans in the West Bank. Starmer highlighted Britain's commitment to working with allies to develop a plan for political negotiations and the implementation of a two-state solution.
The British government has decided to send humanitarian aid to Gaza, facilitate the treatment of wounded children in British hospitals, and advocate for the resumption of aid deliveries through UN agencies. Prime Minister Starmer also invited President Abbas to visit Britain for further discussions.
President Abbas expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Starmer for Britain's position on recognizing the State of Palestine and working towards peace and stability. He urged other countries to recognize Palestine, emphasizing the importance of international support to end the occupation and achieve peace based on international resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative.
Abbas highlighted the necessity of establishing an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. He stressed priorities such as achieving a ceasefire, allowing aid entry, lifting the siege, and ensuring Israel's withdrawal. He also mentioned preparations for elections in line with international commitments and called for the release of Palestinian tax revenues and an end to attacks on religious sites.
The call concluded with an agreement to continue coordination and strengthen bilateral relations between Palestine and Britain.
