On Wednesday (23 July) more than 50 former British diplomats and UN officials - including UNA Chair Ian Martin, former Chairs Lord David Hannay and Sir Jeremy Greenstock, and Trustee Andrew Gilmour - signed an open letter to Prime Minister Keir Starmer urging the UK to recognise Palestinian statehood and uphold international law.
Coordinated by UNA-UK, the letter calls on the Government to join the 147 states that have already recognised the State of Palestine and reaffirm the broad international consensus that Palestinian self-determination and statehood are not only non-negotiable but essential elements in practice for any viable and just peace process.
The signatories, including former UN Under-Secretaries-General, Ambassadors, High Commissioners, and Special Representatives, implore the UK “leverage its diplomatic influence at the UN and in other multilateral forums to pursue peace and defend international law”.
Ahead of the UN conference on a two-state solution, coordinated by France and Saudi Arabia and taking place on 28-29 July, they said:
Recognising a Palestinian state would be a foundational first step towards breaking the deadly status quo. A coordinated multilateral approach is the only credible way forward, and will be supported by many countries in Europe, the Middle East, and the wider world.
They warn that the continuation of Palestinian life is under unprecedented threat, that inaction will have catastrophic implications for life in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, and that Israel too cannot be safe from future threats without a viable political settlement.
While they welcome recent diplomatic steps, including support for a ceasefire and renewed funding for UNRWA, they highlight that regrettably the UK has stopped short of recognising the grave violations of international law Israel continues to perpetrate – stating only there is a “risk” of such violations – despite credible and mounting evidence.
In the face of Israel’s ongoing impunity, its failure to meet obligations under international law - including the historic order from the ICJ to prevent genocide - the letter notes that the UK has failed to deliver concrete actions to try to influence Israel.
A partial suspension of arms sales, delays on trade talks and limited sanctions are far from the full extent of the pressure the UK can bring to bear on Israel.
Finally, the letter echoes widespread calls for redoubled efforts to secure a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, an end to the blockade, and for pathways to ensure that all hostages and those arbitrarily detained are freed.
Read more:
- Open letter from over 50 diplomats to the Prime Minister
- The Elders’ open letter to the leaders of Canada, France and the United Kingdom urging them to fulfil their stated commitment to recognise the State of Palestine without condition or delay.
- Open letter from ex-EU Ambassadors calling for action to end Israel’s atrocities
