UK rejects criticism that move to recognise Palestinian state rewards Hamas

30/7/2025 18:03

Britain on Wednesday rejected criticism that it was rewarding militant group Hamas by setting out plans to recognise a Palestinian state unless Israel took steps to improve the situation in Gaza and bring about peace.



The sight of emaciated Gaza children has shocked the world in recent days and on Tuesday, a hunger monitor warned that a worst-case scenario of famine was unfolding there and immediate action was needed to avoid widespread death.



Prime Minister Keir Starmer's ultimatum, setting a September deadline for Israel, prompted an immediate rebuke from his counterpart in Jerusalem, who said it rewarded Hamas and punished the victims of their 2023 cross-border attack.



U.S. President Donald Trump said he did not think Hamas "should be rewarded" with recognition of Palestinian independence.



Asked about that criticism, British Transport Minister Heidi Alexander said it was not the right way to characterise Britain's plan.



"This is not a reward for Hamas. Hamas is a vile terrorist organisation that has committed appalling atrocities. This is about the Palestinian people. It's about those children that we see in Gaza who are starving to death," she told LBC radio.