Sir Keir Starmer has been warned Israel could withdraw defence and security co-operation if the UK proceeds with the Prime Minister’s plan to recognise Palestine.
There are concerns the move could undermine national security with the Israeli Government considering various options if Britain continues with Palestinian recognition next month.
Starmer has been warned that he should “carefully consider” the ramifications of recognising Palestine.
“London needs to be careful because (Benjamin Netanyahu) and his ministers have cards they could play too,” a diplomatic source told The Times.
“Israel values its partnership with the UK but recent decisions mean it is coming under pressure and the UK has a lot to lose if Israel’s Government decides to take steps in response.”
Starmer’s plan already sparked fury, with Israel warning the Prime Minister was handing Hamas a “prize for terror” by recognising Palestine.
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Keir Starmer says Israeli’s decision take over Gaza City ‘is wrong’
The Prime Minister has slammed the Israeli Government’s decision to “further escalate its offensive” and take over Gaza City.
Keir Starmer said in a statement that the decision was “wrong, and we urge it to reconsider immediately”.
“This action will do nothing to bring an end to this conflict or to help secure the release of the hostages. It will only bring more bloodshed,” Starmer added.
“Every day the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens and hostages taken by Hamas are being held in appalling and inhuman conditions.”
The Prime Minister further said that “what we need is a ceasefire, a surge in humanitarian aid, the release of all hotages by Hamas and a negotiated solution”.
“Hamas can play no part in the future of Gaza and must leave as well as disarm,” Starmer said.
“Together with our allies, we are working on a long-term plan to secure peace in the region as part of a two-state solution, and ultimately achieve a brighter future for Palestinians and Israelis.”
However, Starmer said that “without both sides engaging in good faith negotiations” the prospect of peace “is vanishing before our eyes”.
“Our message is clear: a diplomatic solution is possible, but both parties must step away from the path of destruction,” he said.
Labour MP warns Israel’s plans to take military control of Gaza City is ‘wrong decision’
Labour MP Miatta Fahnbulleh has called the Israeli Cabinet’s decision to proceed with proposals to implement military control of Gaza City as the “wrong decision”.
The Energy Minister said it risked “escalating an already intolerable situation” when speaking to Sky News.
Fahnbulleh said: “There’s no one that can see what is happening and unfolding in Gaza that isn’t horrified by it. And, you know, our priority is in order to try and get a ceasefire.”