Sir Keir Starmer (Labour) welcomed Mahmoud Abbas to Downing Street as the Government continues steps towards recognising a Palestinian state. The Palestinian Authority president's visit comes as Britain considers formal recognition ahead of this month's United Nations General Assembly meeting in New York.
Abbas welcomed Starmer's pledge for recognition if Israel does not change course before the UN gathering. The meeting focused on advancing long-term solutions to the Middle East crisis through diplomatic channels.
Both leaders agreed there will be "absolutely no role" for Hamas in the future governance of Palestine, according to a Downing Street spokesperson. This position forms a cornerstone of Britain's approach to Palestinian statehood recognition.
Gaza crisis and ceasefire demands
The leaders discussed what they called the intolerable situation in Gaza during their talks. Starmer reiterated the need for an urgent solution to end what he described as horrific suffering and famine, starting with an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages and a huge surge in humanitarian aid.
The Prime Minister outlined Britain's ongoing work with partners on a long-term solution, which both leaders agreed represents the only path to enduring peace and stability for Palestinians and Israelis. Starmer welcomed Abbas's commitment to reform of the Palestinian Authority as vital to this process.
Jerusalem attack overshadows talks
The meeting took place following Monday's rush hour terror attack in Jerusalem. Palestinian attackers opened fire on people at a bus stop, killing six and wounding another twelve, according to Israeli officials.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said she was "horrified by the terrorist attack in Jerusalem". Abbas's office issued a statement "condemning any targeting of Palestinian and Israeli civilians".
Three-day diplomatic visit
Abbas arrived in London on Sunday night for a three-day visit. He planned to use his talks with Starmer to push for an end to "the aggression, destruction and starvation being inflicted upon the Palestinian people", his officials said.
Downing Street indicated the Government maintained its intention to recognise a Palestinian state later this month. The Prime Minister's official spokesman said: "We continue to intend to recognise the state of Palestine before the UN general assembly, subject to the conditions that we set out."
Starmer has previously indicated he will proceed with recognition in the coming weeks unless the Israeli government takes "substantive" steps to end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, agree to a ceasefire and commit to long-term, sustainable peace. He has also demanded that Hamas releases all Israeli hostages, signs up to a ceasefire and disarms.
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
