Britain intends to recognize the State of Palestine today.

Arabian Sea Newspaper - Special

**Arabian Sea_Reuters:** Britain intends to officially recognize the State of Palestine today, Sunday, in a historic shift in its policy that its long-time ally Israel has strongly opposed, according to Agence France-Presse. Britain is one of Israel's most prominent supporters, but its position has changed as the Hebrew state intensifies its attack on the Gaza Strip, which was ignited by the unprecedented Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated in July that his country would officially recognize the State of Palestine if Israel did not take "substantial steps" towards a ceasefire with Hamas by the time the United Nations General Assembly convenes in September. Several British media outlets, including the BBC and the Press Association, reported that the recognition would be announced on Sunday. Starmer affirmed in July that this step would contribute to a "sound peace process, at a moment of maximum impact for a two-state solution." In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused him of rewarding "brutal terrorism" and appeasing "jihadist" thought, according to him. Starmer's expected announcement comes ahead of the United Nations General Assembly, as about 10 other countries, including France, are scheduled to recognize a Palestinian state, while Israel continues its new offensive to control Gaza City, the largest urban center in the Strip.