Currently Online 
Keir Starmer has told the Palestinian president, Mahmoud Abbas, that recognition of the state of Palestine as part of a Middle East peace process is an "undeniable right". Labour's election manifesto committed the party to recognising a Palestinian state as part of a process that results in a two-state solution alongside Israel. Labour suffered significant election setbacks in areas with large Muslim populations on Friday amid discontent over its position on Israel's war in Gaza. Starmer, the UK's prime minister, has faced criticism for only gradually shifting towards calling for a ceasefire.
In his talks with the Palestinian leader this morning, No 10 said Starmer was "pleased to be able to speak to President Abbas so early in his tenure, given the pressing issues in the region, ongoing suffering, and devastating loss of life in Gaza". "Discussing the importance of reform, and ensuring international legitimacy for Palestine, the prime minister said that his longstanding policy on recognition to contribute to a peace process had not changed, and it was the undeniable right of Palestinians," No 10 said.
The commitment to recognising a Palestinian state "as part of a peace process" echoes comments made in January by David Cameron, the former foreign secretary. It is likely to irritate Israel. Netanyahu reacted angrily when Ireland, Spain and Norway all officially recognised Palestine in May, describing the move as a "reward for terrorism".
Here are some more conversations Starmer has had with world leaders today:
- Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In a readout of the call with Netanyahu, Downing Street said: "The leaders discussed the importance of regional security in the Middle East, and the prime minister said he was committed to continuing the UK and Israel's vital cooperation to deter malign threats. The prime minister said the situation on the northern border of Israel was very concerning, and it was crucial all parties acted with caution."
- "Turning to the conflict in Gaza, the prime minister reiterated his condolences for the tragic loss of life following the October attacks. He then set out the clear and urgent need for a ceasefire, the return of hostages and an immediate increase in the volume of humanitarian aid reaching civilians. He added that it was also important to ensure the long-term conditions for a two-state solution were in place, including ensuring the Palestinian Authority had the financial means to operate effectively."
