Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday outlined his vision for a two-state solution: a “safe and secure Israel” alongside a sovereign Palestinian state that has no place for Hamas in its leadership. This vision underpins his government’s controversial plan to recognize Palestine, a plan opposed by US President Donald Trump.
Speaking during a joint press conference with the visiting president, Starmer presented recognition not as a concession but as a strategic building block for regional stability. He called it “part of the overall package” to move from the current “appalling situation” to a lasting peace.
The firm exclusion of Hamas is a critical component of Starmer’s pitch to a skeptical international audience, including the US. It is designed to preempt arguments that recognition would empower militant factions and to reassure allies of the UK’s commitment to Israel’s security.
This detailed vision was presented in the context of a public disagreement with President Trump, who confirmed he does not support the UK’s approach. By clearly defining the principles and conditions of its policy, the Starmer government is attempting to justify its diplomatic break from its closest ally.