The SNP has called on Keir Starmer to do “the right thing” and recognise Palestine, warning that the Labour government is failing the Palestinian people and falling behind the international community.
The call comes after French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that France will formally recognise the State of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September, a move that has intensified pressure on Westminster to act.
Senior Labour officials have privately admitted that the main block to UK recognition is Keir Starmer himself, who is reportedly reluctant to move without the backing of Washington.
The SNP says this approach risks leaving the UK isolated at a moment when more countries are demanding meaningful steps towards peace.
In recent months, the Labour government has faced criticism for failing to back an immediate ceasefire, continuing arms sales to Israel and resisting recognition of Palestine, positions that critics say have prolonged the suffering of civilians.
The SNP has consistently urged the UK to recognise Palestine, with its Middle East spokesperson Brendan O’Hara MP telling ministers to “stop the excuses” during President Macron’s visit to the UK earlier this month.
Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, added his voice on social media last night, writing:
“The UK should follow the example of France tonight and recognise the State of Palestine.
“This is essential for peace.
“The ceasefire and humanitarian aid must start now.”
SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn MP said the UK government must act without delay.
“Keir Starmer must finally do the right thing and stop blocking UK recognition of Palestine,” he said.
“The Labour government, and the Tories before them, have failed the Palestinian people, condoning collective punishment, supplying arms to Israel, dragging their feet over a ceasefire, and failing to recognise the State of Palestine.”
Mr Flynn said Westminster’s inaction was “a shameful abdication of leadership” and urged the UK to follow France’s lead.
“Westminster cannot continue to stand idly by as the world witnesses a genocide,” he said.
“Thousands of innocent Palestinian children, women and men are being deliberately bombed, shot and starved to death.
“It must end.”
