Leader of the United Kingdom’s Conservative Party, Kemi Badenoch, has sharply criticised the country’s decision to formally recognise Palestine as an independent state.
Her reaction follows an announcement by Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Sunday, confirming that Britain has joined more than 150 nations in granting recognition to Palestine.
Describing the move as “absolutely disastrous,” Badenoch accused the Labour government of rewarding terrorism without securing the release of hostages in Gaza or providing relief to civilians affected by the conflict.
According to her, the recognition reflects poor judgement and will have long-term consequences that Britain may come to regret.
“It leaves hostages languishing in Gaza and does nothing to ease the suffering of innocent people. We will all rue the day this decision was made,” Badenoch said.
The opposition leader also criticised Labour’s broader policy direction, accusing the party of neglecting pressing issues such as healthcare, youth unemployment, and immigration.
Meanwhile, Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, and the United States have also rejected Palestine’s recognition, even as several countries continue to lend support amid accusations of genocide in Gaza.