**UK Pledge to Recognize Palestinian State Sparks Backlash from Hostage Families**
In a move that has sparked widespread criticism, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced on Tuesday that the UK would recognize a Palestinian State in September if Israel does not meet certain conditions. However, the decision has been met with fierce opposition from British-Israeli hostage families, who claim that it will only embolden Hamas and hinder their efforts to bring loved ones home.
**Hostage Families Slam Decision**
Emily Damari, a woman who was held by Hamas for 15 months before being released in January, spoke out against the decision. She claimed that Sir Keir Starmer was “not on the right side of history” and that his pledge would only serve to “reward terrorism”. Damari, whose mother is from south London, said that she was doing everything she could to bring her twin friends Ziv Berman and Gali Bernman back home, but that the UK’s decision would only make it harder.
**Concerns Over Delaying Release of Hostages**
A group of lawyers representing British families who have relatives held by Hamas expressed their deep concern over the Prime Minister’s statement. They warned that the UK’s approach could delay the release of hostages, as Hamas may continue to reject a ceasefire in order to avoid recognition of a Palestinian State.
**”Shame on You!” – Hostage Family Reacts**
Ada Sagi, Noam’s mother, was 75 years old when she was taken hostage by Hamas on October 7. She was held for 53 days before being released and now fears that the UK’s decision will only serve to reward Hamas for their actions.
“We are in an extremely delicate situation,” she said. “Every day, it’s a matter of finding the right balance in order to achieve a cessation of hostilities and the release all hostages. There can be no ceasefire until all hostages have been released.”
**UK Government Spokesman Responds**
A UK Government spokesman sought to downplay concerns over the decision, stating that the government’s demands to Hamas remain unchanged. The hostages must be freed if there is to be any hope of peace, and Hamas must lay down its arms and agree not to play any role in the future governance of Gaza.
However, many are skeptical about the UK’s intentions and fear that the decision will only serve to further destabilize the region.
**Background**
Israel imposed a complete blockade on aid and commercial deliveries into Gaza at the beginning of March, leading to severe shortages of food, medicine, and fuel. Hamas has said that it wants to exert pressure on Israel to release their Israeli hostages. The situation in Gaza is dire, with many warning that famine conditions are being reached.
**Foreign Secretary David Lammy’s Statement**
Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated that the world has seen “the most horrifying scenes” in Gaza and that it is now time to “abate the suffering of Palestinian people”. However, his statement was met with skepticism by some who feel that the UK’s decision will only serve to perpetuate the crisis.
As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the UK’s pledge to recognize a Palestinian State has sparked widespread concern and opposition from hostage families and many others.
