Netanyahu Accuses Starmer of Appeasement Over Gaza Recognition Ultimatum

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sharply criticised Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, accusing him of “appeasing terrorists” following Starmer’s conditional pledge to recognise a Palestinian state unless Israel halts its military operations in Gaza and allows aid access.

In a statement released after an emergency virtual shadow cabinet meeting on Tuesday evening, Sir Keir Starmer outlined Labour’s position that the United Kingdom would move to formally recognise Palestine as a state unless Israel takes decisive steps within the next two months. These include agreeing to an immediate ceasefire, ensuring unrestricted humanitarian aid reaches Gaza, and demonstrating a clear commitment to a sustainable peace process that revives the two-state solution.

Netanyahu responded forcefully to Starmer’s remarks on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), saying: “Starmer rewards Hamas’s monstrous terrorism & punishes its victims. Appeasement towards jihadist terrorists always fails. It will fail you too. It will not happen.” The Israeli leader’s comments signal growing frustration with what his government views as international pressure that undermines its security efforts.

Starmer’s announcement has also drawn criticism at home. Several Members of Parliament (MPs) and representatives from British charitable organisations voiced concern that the Labour leader is using Palestinian statehood as a “bargaining chip” rather than a principled policy stance. The move has sparked debate within the UK political landscape over the appropriate balance between humanitarian concerns and national diplomacy.

The backdrop to this dispute is the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which erupted in October 2023 and has reportedly claimed over 60,000 lives, according to figures provided by local officials in the territory. The humanitarian situation has continued to deteriorate, with a United Nations-supported food security group warning that a “worst-case scenario of famine” is currently unfolding in the enclave.

Starmer’s position reflects a shift in Labour’s foreign policy tone, likely aimed at differentiating itself ahead of the next general election. However, critics argue that pressuring Israel with unilateral recognition of Palestinian statehood could embolden hostile elements, including Hamas, while undermining diplomatic efforts in the region.

The Labour leader maintains that his proposal is rooted in promoting peace and long-term stability. He stated that any recognition of Palestine must be tied to progress on a viable and negotiated two-state solution, which remains the long-standing international framework supported by the United Nations and successive UK governments.

As international and domestic scrutiny grows, the row underscores the political sensitivities surrounding the Gaza conflict and the broader Middle East peace process. Whether Labour’s approach will resonate with the electorate, or backfire, remains to be seen.