The NEU welcomes the announcement on 21 September by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer that the UK recognises the state of Palestine. Recognition of their state is the inalienable right of the Palestinian people.
We further welcome the news that Australia, Canada and Portugal have also announced recognition of the state of Palestine and that France has indicated it will follow suit.
We believe UK recognition, although a welcome step, is long overdue, a with a state of Palestine already recognised by around 75% of the UN's 193 member states.
The NEU believes the announcement must be followed by concrete steps by the UK government to secure an immediate ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza City, the unconditional release of all hostages held in Gaza and immediate access for aid and essential services to enter Gaza and for aid agencies to safely operate across the Gaza Strip.