DUBAI/LONDON: A declaration of famine in Gaza has shocked world leaders and intensified calls for immediate action. On Tuesday, a UN-backed food security monitor confirmed that large areas of the enclave are now experiencing full-scale famine, prompting outrage at the international conference on Palestine.
The grim update was followed by a major diplomatic shift when the UK announced it would recognize the State of Palestine at the UN General Assembly in September — unless Israel halts its military campaign and commits to a viable two-state solution before then.
“The devastation in Gaza is heartbreaking. Children are starving, and Israel’s drip feeding of aid has horrified the world,” said David Lammy, the UK foreign minister. “It is a historical injustice which continues to unfold.
“It is with the hand of history on our shoulders that His Majesty’s government, therefore, intends to recognize the State of Palestine when the UN General Assembly gathers in September … unless the Israeli government acts to end the appalling situation in Gaza, ends its military campaign, and commits to a long sustainable peace based on a two-state solution.”
The UK’s statement, foreshadowed by the Palestinian prime minister on Monday and mirrored shortly after by San Marino, reflects mounting frustration over Israel’s conduct in both Gaza and the West Bank.
