Tuesday September 23rd 2025
MP for Midlothian Kirsty McNeill
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
The UK has formally recognised Palestine to protect the viability of a two-state solution and create a path towards lasting peace for the Israeli and Palestinian people.
The historic decision, announced alongside Canada and Australia, comes as the situation on the ground in Gaza continues to worsen, Israel continues to expand its illegal settlements in the West Bank and Hamas continues to hold the hostages.
The UK government has underlined that recognition is not enough to change the situation on the ground on its own. That’s why the decision comes as part of coordinated international efforts to build consensus around a Framework for Peace, which addresses governance,
security, humanitarian access and ceasefire monitoring in Gaza, as well as the foundations of a two-state solution.
The government has also pledged an additional £15 million to deliver vital aid and medical support in Gaza and is coordinating the evacuation of Palestinian children for treatment in the UK, with the first group arriving earlier this month.
The announcement was welcomed by Kirsty McNeill, Labour and Co-operative MP for Midlothian, who said:
“Unspeakable horrors are unfolding in Gaza, and the UK’s recognition of the State of Palestine is a historic and vital step toward a two-state solution at a time when it faces unprecedented threat.
The UK Government will not relent until this war ends, the hostages are freed, and a just political solution is within reach. That means working in concert with international partners, as the government has done by recognising Palestine alongside Canada and Australia ahead of the UN General Assembly, where the UK will continue working closely with allies to advance a framework for a lasting peace in the Middle East.”
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