Sky News Daily Starmer and the risks of recognising Palestine
Sep 22, 2025
Michael Clarke, a security and defence analyst for Sky News, discusses the UK’s recent recognition of Palestinian statehood. He explains the Montevideo criteria and why Palestinians qualify as a state. The motivations behind this recognition, including the push for a two-state solution and its implications for UK-Israel relations, are explored. Additionally, the internal Labour politics and pressure influencing this move are examined, raising questions about future policies, including potential arms sales discussions.
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Recognition Preserves Two-State Hope
- Recognition signals the UK's insistence that a two-state solution remains the only viable long-term path to peace.
- Michael Clarke says recognition counters Israeli denial of Palestinian statehood and preserves a future settlement option.
Statehood Is Legal But Political
- Statehood follows Montevideo: people, territory, government — and Palestinians meet those criteria if states choose recognition.
- Michael Clarke argues recognition is ultimately a political choice rather than a purely legal hurdle.
West Bank Recognition Challenges Settlements
- UK recognition implies the West Bank belongs to a future Palestinian state and labels Israeli settlements illegal under international law.
- Michael Clarke highlights the large settler population and occupation since 1967 as key obstacles.