Freed British-Israeli accuses PM of ‘moral failure’ over move to recognise Palestine at UN unless Israel changes course
Keir Starmer has said he is listening to hostages taken by Hamas but still intends to recognise a Palestinian state unless Israel commits to a ceasefire and two-state solution.
The prime minister said he had spoken to the freed British-Israeli Emily Damari, held hostage by Hamas for 471 days, after she accused him of “moral failure” over the move to recognise Palestine as a state in September at the United Nations.
He said the hostages must be released, but alongside that everything possible must be done to alleviate the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and bring about a ceasefire.
Speaking to ITV West Country while on a visit to Swindon on Thursday, the prime minister said: “I particularly listen to the hostages, Emily Damari, who I have spoken to, I’ve met her mother a number of times, and they’ve been through the most awful, awful experience for Emily and for her mother.
