The Scottish National Party (SNP) has announced it will introduce a bill in September calling for the UK to recognise Palestinian statehood. The decision comes amid growing pressure in Europe following France’s recent move at the United Nations.

Momentum Builds in Europe

French President Emmanuel Macron recently declared that France will support recognising a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September. His announcement sparked fresh debate across Europe. Following this, all eyes have now turned to the UK, where the SNP—a small opposition party with only nine MPs has decided to act.

SNP to Push for Recognition

The SNP said on Sunday that it will table a “Palestine Recognition Bill” when Parliament returns after its summer break. The party’s Westminster leader, Stephen Flynn, warned that the bill would force a vote if Prime Minister Keir Starmer continues to avoid the issue.

“Unless Keir Starmer stops blocking UK recognition of Palestine, the SNP will introduce a Palestine Recognition Bill when Parliament returns in September and force a vote if necessary,” Flynn stated.

Labour Faces Internal Pressure

Starmer has so far resisted calls for recognition, maintaining that any decision should come “as part of a peace process.” But pressure is building. On Friday, more than 220 British MPs including several from Starmer’s own Labour Party signed a letter urging the UK to follow France’s lead and formally recognise Palestine.

Divisions Across Europe

While France is moving forward, other European countries are not ready. Germany and Italy have rejected immediate recognition, saying it should only happen through peace negotiations. However, critics argue that delaying recognition has worsened the situation in Gaza.

Rising Tensions Over Gaza Crisis

As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues, international calls for action have grown louder. Fears of starvation and ongoing conflict have increased demands on governments to support Palestinian statehood. Starmer has faced criticism both at home and abroad for not taking a stronger stand.

142 Countries Support Palestinian Statehood

With France’s backing, a total of 142 countries now recognise Palestine as a state, based on data from AFP. Still, both Israel and the United States strongly oppose any such move.

UN's Historic Role

The idea of Palestinian statehood dates back decades. In 1947, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution to divide British-controlled Palestine into two states one Jewish and one Arab. That plan, however, has never been fully realised.