U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed rare public disagreement with British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer over the U.K.’s plan to recognize Palestinian statehood ahead of this month’s United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Speaking at a press conference during his state visit to London, Trump said, “I have a disagreement with the Prime Minister on that score—one of the very few disagreements we have, actually.”
The U.S. and the U.K. rarely voice public disagreement over issues, and during President Trump’s state visit – which included a lavish Windsor Castle welcome and Royal hospitality – the two sides noted that their special relationship is stronger as ever.
Trump’s remarks highlight a longstanding divide between Washington and several Western allies on the path toward a two-state solution in the Middle East, where Israeli military operations have devastated the besieged Gaza Strip and killed tens of thousands of people.
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Starmer has indicated that his government will move to formally recognize Palestine if Israel refuses to take concrete steps to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Among the conditions set forth are agreeing to a ceasefire, halting settlement expansion and annexation in the West Bank, and recommitting to a negotiated two-state solution.
Israel has already rejected these demands, making British recognition of Palestinian statehood appear increasingly likely.
Reports suggest the formal announcement could come as early as this weekend, following the conclusion of Trump’s state visit.
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In private talks with the U.S. president, Starmer reportedly reaffirmed his position, emphasizing that recognition is not a symbolic gesture but part of a broader diplomatic strategy aimed at achieving “a safe and secure Israel, alongside a viable Palestinian state.”
The Trump administration remains firmly opposed to unilateral recognition, arguing that such a move would embolden Hamas and further diminish the prospects for direct negotiations.
Washington has also denied visas to Palestinian representatives scheduled to attend the upcoming UN summit.
While reiterating U.S. support for Israel, Trump demanded the immediate release of hostages held by Hamas, accusing the militant group of using captives as “bait” and calling the tactic “brutal.”
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Despite U.S. objections, London appears poised to move forward—and it’s not alone. France, Canada, and Japan are also reportedly preparing to take similar steps, either before or during the General Assembly.
These coordinated efforts would mark a significant shift in the international consensus, as recognition of Palestinian statehood has long been a divisive issue among Western powers.
Meanwhile, Jewish organizations in Canada, Australia, and the U.K.—including the Board of Deputies of British Jews—have issued a joint statement warning against premature recognition. They argue that such actions risk being interpreted by Hamas as a reward for “violence and rejectionism,” threatening Israel’s security and regional stability.
The dispute underscores a growing transatlantic rift over Middle East policy.
While Britain and its allies frame recognition as a step toward peace and a long-overdue acknowledgment of Palestinian rights, Washington maintains it would erode Israel’s negotiating leverage and strengthen extremist groups.
As the UN General Assembly approaches, the issue is shaping up to be a major diplomatic flashpoint.
During Trump’s visit the two sides also inked an agreement that would expand American investments in technology, generating thousands of new jobs and stimulating growth in the British economy.
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Kiran Asim is a writer who covers the U.S., Europe, South Asia, and the Middle East. Her reports and analyses look at the geostrategic issues and contemporary developments and their economic and political implications. She also writes about society and education.
