Palestinians Skeptical of UK’s Pledge to Recognize Their State

As Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer advocates for Palestinian state recognition at the UN, skepticism abounds among Palestinians. Many view the gesture as too little, too late, especially faced with escalating Israeli settlements and violence, casting doubt on the promise of a viable two-state solution.

As Britain prepares to potentially endorse a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly, the local sentiment among Palestinians is one of skepticism. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s proposal, influenced by similar actions from France and Canada, aims to rekindle interest in the two-state solution—long seen as a hollow commitment since the 1990s Oslo Accords dissolved into conflict.

Driving through the West Bank reveals the stark realities imposed by Israeli policies, particularly through the proliferation of settlements that house over 700,000 Israelis. This expansion reflects decades of investment and commitment to altering the territorial landscape, which Palestinians long view as their rightful territory. International law, including an advisory from the International Court of Justice deeming the occupation illegal, has done little to change the trajectory of settlements in the region.

Recent announcements from Israeli officials signal a significant escalation in this phenomenon, with plans for the construction of 22 new settlements deemed a "strategic move." Defense Minister Israel Katz and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich characterized this expansion as vital for national security, further complicating the prospect of an independent Palestinian state, which they openly seek to prevent.

At the village of Taybeh—a predominantly Christian community of 1,500—the effects of these developments are palpable. Recent settler attacks, including the burning of vehicles and vandalization of property, have left local residents fearful. Kamal Tayea, a resident, remarked on the frightening nature of these incidents and expressed doubt that Britain's recognition would alter their situation since Israel disregards such international sentiments.

The emotional toll is echoed by David Khoury, a 74-year-old Greek Orthodox priest, who fiercely defends his community's right to remain despite external pressures. He invokes deep historical connections to the land, which he insists cannot be uprooted.

In online discussions, Husam Zomlot, the Palestinian representative in the UK, expressed hope regarding Britain's recognition, viewing it as a potential turning point for international action toward establishing Palestine. Nonetheless, challenges persist, with longstanding grievances about historical injustices carried out during British rule from 1917 to 1948.

Opposition voices within Israel articulate concerns that such recognition panders to organizations like Hamas, dismissing the proposal as a misguided reward for violence. The political atmosphere remains fraught with tensions, as both Palestinian hopes and Israeli security anxieties collide.

In Taybeh, a local businessman encapsulated the sentiment of many when he remarked, "Thank you Britain. But it's too late." This tone of resignation amplifies the urgency for substantive action over symbolic gestures, as Palestinians continue to seek both recognition and peace amidst ongoing conflict.