UK may recognise Palestinian state today after Israel misses deadline

The UK is preparing to recognise the state of Palestine as early as today, after Israel failed to meet conditions that would have postponed the historic step, including a ceasefire in Gaza.

- Patrick Wintour Diplomatic editor

Keir Starmer insisted the timing of the UK announcement had nothing to do with Donald Trump's visit, even though the US president said at a press conference that he disagreed with Britain's decision, without elaborating.

Recognition will bring a wave of criticism from Israel, including claims that it is a reward for Hamas and terrorism, a charge the UK rejects by saying it envisages only a Palestinian state in which Hamas is disarmed, plays no part in the future government, and the leadership of the Palestinian Authority is subject to elections within a year.

Starmer emphasised there would be no place for Hamas, insisting the group were terrorists, and adding he agreed with Trump on the need for a roadmap.

The UK prime minister said recognition was "part of that overall package which hopefully takes us from the appalling situation we're in now to the outcome of a safe and secure Israel, which we do not have, and a viable Palestinian state".