In a move announced ahead of the UN General Assembly in September, Starmer stated that Israel must agree to a ceasefire, commit to a sustainable two-state solution, and allow for the UN-restart of humanitarian aid in order to avoid recognition. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denounced the announcement, claiming it rewards Hamas, labeling the move as appeasement.

The UK's stance on Palestinian state recognition has been evolving amid increasing pressure from MPs, with 255 lawmakers backing immediate recognition in light of the humanitarian crisis. Starmer addressed the pressing situation in Gaza and insisted that the aim remains to foster a secure Israel and a viable Palestinian state.

In reaction, some political figures have criticized the conditional nature of recognition, arguing for immediate action based on the right to self-determination of Palestinians instead of linking it to Israeli actions. The Conservatives have opposed the timing of recognition, insisting it could backfire by empowering Hamas.

With a lack of consensus on the terms of recognition among major world powers, including the US and Germany, the UK finds itself balancing diplomatic pressures and moral imperatives in light of worsening conditions in Gaza, characterized by calls for more immediate humanitarian support.