Why Starmer changed his mind about Palestinian statehood

Why Starmer changed his mind about Palestinian statehood

Author: Financial Times August 1, 2025 Duration: 35:31

Prime Minister Keir Starmer plans to recognise a Palestinian state in September at the UN General Assembly. The decision comes after some Labour MPs and cabinet ministers accused him of being too slow to respond to the Gaza crisis. Host George Parker is joined by FT columnists Stephen Bush, Robert Shrimsley and deputy opinion editor Miranda Green to discuss how the prime minister arrived at this decision, and whether UK recognition of a Palestinian state will change the state of play in the region. 


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Follow George on Bluesky or X: @georgewparker.bsky.social, @GeorgeWParker; Robert @robertshrimsley, @robertshrimsley.bsky.social; Stephen @stephenkb.bsky.social‬, @stephenkb; Miranda @greenmirandahere.bsky.social 


What did you think of this episode? Let us know at politicalfix@ft.com  


Want more? Free links:   


The best case for Starmer’s ill-starred Palestine gambit


Starmer finally sets out his stance on Palestinian statehood


Keir Starmer threads the needle on Palestinian recognition


Emmanuel Macron says France will recognise Palestinian state in September


Presented by George Parker and produced by Ethan Plotkin. The executive producer is Flo Phillips. Original music by Breen Turner and mix by Simon Panayi. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Manuela Saragosa. 


Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com


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Every Friday, the team behind Political Fix gathers to make sense of the week's political turbulence. This isn't just a recap of headlines; it's a deep, often lively conversation that pulls back the curtain on how decisions are really made in Westminster and beyond. You'll hear from the Financial Times journalists who are actually there, in the corridors and committee rooms, paired with expert voices who provide crucial context. Together, they untangle complex policy debates, analyse the shifting alliances, and question the strategies defining Britain's future. The result is a clear-eyed, authoritative look at the forces shaping the nation, delivered with the FT's signature rigor and insight. Tuning into this podcast feels like gaining access to a private briefing, one that prioritizes substance over noise. It’s for anyone who wants to move past the soundbites and understand the real stories and personalities driving the political agenda. New episodes arrive weekly, offering a consistent and essential perspective on a landscape that never stops moving.
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