President Donald Trump used his platform in London on Thursday to reaffirm the United States’ long-standing opposition to the unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state. Speaking alongside Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump explicitly stated his “disagreement” with the UK’s plan to do just that.
The President’s remarks served as a clear signal that US policy on the matter remains firm, even as a key ally prepares to break ranks. This stance was recently demonstrated when the US voted against a UN General Assembly resolution that called for a two-state solution and was supported by an overwhelming majority of nations.
In response, Prime Minister Starmer walked a fine line, acknowledging the difference of opinion while highlighting their shared commitment to a peaceful resolution. He defended the UK’s proposed recognition as a necessary catalyst within a broader framework for peace, not as an end in itself.
The exchange put the different diplomatic philosophies of the two nations on full display. The US prioritizes a negotiated agreement as the precursor to statehood, while the Starmer government is moving towards a model where recognition is used to generate momentum for negotiations, all while delaying the move to preserve amity during the state visit.
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