The New Statesman: politics and culture Britain recognises Palestinian statehood
Sep 23, 2025
Megan Kenyon, a political correspondent for the New Statesman, discusses the UK’s recent recognition of Palestine as an independent state. The conversation explores the implications of this decision amidst growing international recognition from countries like France and Canada. Kenyon highlights domestic political motivations behind the timing, critiques the effectiveness of recognition as diplomatic leverage, and examines the potential fallout from Israel's reaction. The podcast also addresses humanitarian concerns, questioning whether symbolic gestures can truly benefit the Palestinian people.
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Why Recognition Came Now
- Many countries used the UN General Assembly moment to recognise Palestine because they see diplomatic options dwindling amid Gaza's devastation.
- The UK followed France, Australia and others after previously setting conditions that were unmet.
Domestic Politics Fueled The Move
- Gaza has become electorally important in UK politics and pressured Labour to act on recognition.
- Keir Starmer used recognition partly to ease party tensions but it did not fully appease the left.
Timing And Political Optics
- The UK delayed announcing recognition until after President Trump's visit and moved timing to avoid Rosh Hashanah clashes.
- Critics called the timing cowardly or virtue-signalling given manifesto commitments.