Bowen: UK move to recognise Palestinian state is a diplomatic crowbar to revive peace process

Jul 30, 2025
BBC News
Bowen: UK move to recognise Palestinian state is a diplomatic crowbar to revive peace process
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Bowen: UK move to recognize Palestinian state is a diplomatic crowbar to revive peace process

UK's Foreign Secretary James Cleverly stated that the recognition of Palestine as a state is intended to encourage a peace deal.

The UK's decision to recognize the state of Palestine is a strategic move to revitalize the peace process, according to an interview with former Foreign Secretary Simon Bowen published today. He highlighted that the move is a diplomatic lever to strengthen Britain's role in the Middle East. Bowen emphasized the importance of a two-state solution, expressing hopes that the UK's stance would incentivize Palestinians and Israelis to return to the negotiating table. He also emphasized the need for Israel to engage in the process, urging them to demonstrate a willingness to make compromises to facilitate meaningful progress.

Reactions from Palestine and Israel

The Palestinian President, Mahmoud Abbas, welcomed the UK's decision, expressing hope that it will lead to broader recognition and meaningful peace negotiations. The move was also applauded by the Arab League, seeing it as a step towards a just and lasting peace. However, the Israeli government criticized the decision, calling it irresponsible and detrimental to the peace process, and stating that recognition should only come through direct negotiations.

International Impact

The UK's recognition of Palestine as a state has broader international implications. The move challenges the traditional Western consensus that recognition should be withheld until a peace deal is reached. The decision follows a growing trend among countries, including China, Thailand, and Hungary, that have recently chosen to recognize Palestine.

Conclusion

The UK's decision to recognize the state of Palestine has multiple implications for the future of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and Britain's role in the Middle East. Bowen emphasized that the move is a diplomatic lever aimed at incentivizing all parties to return to the negotiating table, emphasizing the need for a two-state solution. The decision challenges the traditional Western consensus on recognition and may encourage other countries to follow suit. Ultimately, the impact of this decision will depend on how it is leveraged by all parties moving forward.

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Original source: BBC News