British families: Releasing hostages is not a factor in recognizing the Palestinian state.

Arabian Sea Newspaper - Exclusive

Arab Gulf - Britain - Follow-ups: Families of British hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip said they were informed that the release of the hostages still held "will not play a role" in the UK's plans to recognize Palestine, and urged British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to change course. Starmer announced days ago that the United Kingdom would take the step of recognizing Palestine next September unless Israel meets certain conditions. Members of four British families met with Foreign Office officials on Thursday evening seeking clarification on whether conditions would also be placed on Hamas, their lawyers said in a statement. "However, it was clear from last night's meeting that the British government's policy will not help the hostages, but may harm them," the lawyers continued, according to the British news agency (PA Media). The Prime Minister said that the United Kingdom would only refrain from recognizing Palestine if Israel allowed more aid to enter Gaza, stopped annexing land in the occupied West Bank, agreed to a ceasefire and engaged in a long-term peace process over the next two months.