US Warns UK and France Against Recognizing Palestinian State at UN Conference - Faith & Freedom News

The United States has issued a firm warning to its allies, the United Kingdom and France, against unilaterally recognizing a Palestinian state during a pivotal United Nations conference scheduled for June 17 in New York, according to a report by Middle East Eye. Co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia, the conference seeks to reinvigorate the long-dormant two-state solution, a framework envisioning an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel to foster lasting peace in the region. However, this diplomatic push has sparked tensions among Western powers and raised the stakes for Middle East relations.

France Pushes Forward, UK Hesitates

Diplomatic sources reveal that France is poised to recognize Palestinian statehood at the conference, regardless of broader international agreement, and is urging the UK to follow suit. French media suggests Paris believes it has tacit support from the British government. Yet, the UK remains cautious. Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasized a measured approach, stating, “We won’t act unilaterally,” in a press briefing on Monday. Lammy stressed that recognition would only come when a clear and viable path to a two-state solution emerges.

Despite this, pressure is intensifying within the UK’s Labour Party. MP Uma Kumaran, a Foreign Affairs Committee member, highlighted the party’s election pledge to recognize Palestine as a step toward peace. “We must act on our promises,” she urged, reflecting a growing call for decisive action among Labour lawmakers.

A Potential “Political Earthquake” in the G7

Analysts warn that recognition by the UK or France could trigger a “political earthquake” within the G7, where no member has yet taken this step. Such a move would mark a historic shift in Western policy, given both nations’ deep ties with Israel. The implications could ripple across the group, challenging the unity of Western allies and reshaping Middle East diplomacy.

Israel has voiced strong opposition. Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer cautioned last week that recognition could prompt unilateral Israeli actions, including annexations in parts of the West Bank. “Such a step would not bring peace, but rather inflame tensions,” Dermer told Haaretz, signaling Israel’s readiness to counter what it perceives as a diplomatic overreach.

Conference Looms as a Turning Point

The UN conference, set for June 17-20, aims to rally international stakeholders to chart a path forward for the two-state solution. However, the US has privately urged the UK and France to hold off, warning that unilateral recognition could derail broader peace efforts. As the event nears, the international community watches closely—its outcome could either revitalize the peace process or deepen divisions among global powers.