UK Calls for Immediate Ceasefire in Gaza, Signals Plan to Recognize Palestine at UN

London: The United Kingdom has called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza, warning that if no progress is made, it may formally recognize Palestine as a state at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly session later this month.

In a forceful statement, British Foreign Secretary David Lammy highlighted the escalating humanitarian crisis, saying the conflict is causing “increasing destruction day by day.” He noted that over 132,000 children under the age of five in Gaza face acute food shortages, describing the situation as a catastrophic humanitarian disaster.

Lammy accused Israel of deliberately blocking aid, calling the famine “man-made, not natural.” He urged Israel to halt its military operations and open borders to allow life-saving supplies into Gaza.

“The only solution to improving the situation is a ceasefire,” Lammy said, calling on the international community to intensify pressure on Israel. He warned that delays could worsen the already dire humanitarian conditions.

The International Association of Genocide Scholars has described the Palestinian deaths from Israeli attacks as “genocide” and called for international investigations into potential war crimes. The organization stressed that the scale of civilian casualties and destruction of critical infrastructure demands immediate international accountability.

Britain’s stronger stance comes amid growing international calls for decisive action to end the bloodshed in Gaza. Analysts say the UK’s threat to recognize Palestine marks a significant policy shift and could increase diplomatic pressure on Israel.

In recent months, Israel’s intensified military operations in Gaza and restrictions on aid have drawn widespread global condemnation. Aid agencies have repeatedly warned of a looming famine, particularly affecting children and vulnerable populations.

By linking the recognition of Palestine to the worsening situation on the ground, Britain appears to be signaling a tougher approach ahead of the UN General Assembly debate.

Lammy concluded his address by reaffirming that London “stands with the people of Gaza” and pledged to continue advocating for an immediate cessation of hostilities.

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