The United Kingdom has formally recognized a Palestinian state, a move announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer on September 21, 2025, after Israel did not meet set conditions like a Gaza ceasefire. This decision has sparked sharp criticism from Mandy Damari, mother of freed British-Israeli hostage Emily Damari, who calls it a reward for Hamas amid ongoing conflict and unreleased hostages.
Starmer’s Announcement and Reasoning
Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that the UK’s recognition aims to revive hope for a two-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians. He stressed that this step follows Israel’s failure to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza, release all hostages, and ensure aid access by the July deadline.
Starmer made clear that Hamas, labeled a terrorist group by the UK, has no place in any future Palestinian government or security setup. The move aligns with similar recognitions by Canada and Australia on the same day, marking a shift in Western policy.
This coordinated action comes amid the Gaza war that began after Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, which killed about 1,200 people and led to over 250 hostages taken. As of September 2025, the conflict has caused over 41,000 Palestinian deaths, according to Gaza health officials, and displaced millions.
Mandy Damari’s Emotional Criticism
Mandy Damari, whose daughter Emily was held captive by Hamas for over 15 months, accused Starmer of rewarding the group. She argued that recognizing Palestine now, while hostages remain captive and Hamas holds power in Gaza, ignores the October 7 atrocities.
Damari described the decision as a “two-state delusion,” pointing out that a Palestinian state led by a group intent on destroying Israel cannot lead to peace. Her words echo sentiments from hostage families who feel abandoned by international moves that do not prioritize releases.
In interviews, Damari shared her heartbreak, noting that her daughter was shot during the kidnapping, losing two fingers, and endured harsh conditions in Gaza tunnels. Emily’s release in January 2025 came through negotiations, but many others are still held.
Damari urged leaders to focus on freeing remaining hostages before such recognitions, warning that this could embolden Hamas.
Emily Damari’s Hostage Ordeal
Emily Damari, a 28-year-old British-Israeli citizen, was abducted from her home in southern Israel on October 7, 2023. She was shot in the leg and hand during the attack, resulting in the loss of two fingers, and spent 15 months in captivity.
Her story highlights the human cost of the conflict. Emily described being held in dark tunnels with little food or medical care, facing constant fear. She was one of over 100 hostages released in deals, but about 100 remain in Gaza as of September 2025.
Families like the Damaris have campaigned tirelessly for their loved ones’ freedom. Mandy handed a letter to Starmer earlier, pleading for action, but feels the recognition sidelines these efforts.
The ordeal has drawn global attention, with campaigns using social media to raise awareness. Recent data from hostage advocacy groups shows that prolonged captivity has led to severe health issues for many, including malnutrition and psychological trauma.
International Reactions and Backlash
Israel strongly condemned the UK’s move, calling it a “gift to Hamas” that undermines security. Israeli officials argue it rewards terrorism without addressing root causes like Hamas governance in Gaza.
Jewish community groups in the UK, such as the Board of Deputies, expressed dismay, stating it does nothing for ceasefires or hostage releases. They warned of potential harm to peace talks.
On the other hand, Palestinian leaders welcomed the recognition, seeing it as a step toward statehood. Hamas celebrated it as a victory, though Starmer insisted it excludes them from any role.
Other nations reacted mixed. The US has not followed suit, with Republicans criticizing the move as hasty. Recent polls show 60% of Britons support a two-state solution, but only 40% back recognition now, per a September 2025 YouGov survey.
Here are key reactions from global figures:
- Australian Prime Minister: “This advances peace and security for both sides.”
- Canadian Foreign Minister: “Recognition is long overdue for Palestinian aspirations.”
- Israeli Prime Minister: “It ignores the reality of ongoing terror threats.”
Broader Implications for Middle East Peace
The recognition could reshape diplomacy in the region. Experts say it pressures Israel to negotiate but risks escalating tensions if Hamas remains in power.
A two-state solution has been a goal since the 1990s Oslo Accords, but progress stalled due to settlements, violence, and leadership issues. This move joins over 140 countries that recognize Palestine, potentially boosting its UN status.
However, challenges persist. Gaza’s economy is in ruins, with unemployment at 50% and infrastructure destroyed. Aid groups report that 2 million people need urgent humanitarian help.
| Key Events in the Conflict | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Hamas Attacks | October 7, 2023 | Over 1,200 killed, 250 hostages taken in Israel. |
| Israel’s Response | October 2023 onward | Military operations in Gaza, leading to high casualties. |
| Hostage Releases | November 2023 – January 2025 | About 150 freed through deals, including Emily Damari. |
| UK Recognition | September 21, 2025 | Formal statehood acknowledgment after unmet conditions. |
| Current Status | September 2025 | Around 100 hostages still held, no full ceasefire. |
Analysts predict this could lead to renewed talks, but only if all parties commit to de-escalation.
What This Means for the Future
The UK’s decision opens questions about Palestinian leadership. With Hamas in Gaza and the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank, unity remains elusive.
Starmer’s government plans to boost aid and support rebuilding, aiming for a viable state. Yet, critics like Damari fear it weakens leverage against Hamas.
As the world watches, this step might inspire more recognitions or deepen divides. For families affected, it underscores the need for immediate action on hostages.
What do you think about this development? Share your views in the comments and spread the word to keep the conversation going.
