Cooper warns Israel not to retaliate after UK recognises Palestine
Israel warned not to retaliate after UK’s Palestine move
- Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has warned Israel that it “must not” annex parts of the West Bank in retaliation for Britain's recognition of a Palestinian state.
- Sir Keir Starmer formally recognised Palestine on the weekend, condemning Israel's "relentless and increasing bombardment of Gaza" and the acceleration of settlement building in the West Bank.
- He said the recognition is crucial for safeguarding the prospect of a lasting two-state solution, despite acknowledging it will not immediately ease the humanitarian crisis or free hostages.
- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu branded the UK's move "absurd" and "a reward for terrorism", a sentiment echoed by US President Donald Trump.
- Ms Cooper will use the UN General Assembly to seek international backing for a Middle East peace framework.