UK Government recognises Palestinian State but Plaid Cymru says PM must “go further”

In a major political move on Sunday, the UK Government under Kier Starmer recognised a Palestinian State, but Plaid Cymru Leader Rhun ap Iorwerth has urged the Prime Minister to “go further” and impose harsh sanctions against the Israeli Government in light of the continued atrocities against civilians in Gaza.

Today, to revive the hope of peace for the Palestinians and Israelis, and a two state solution, the United Kingdom formally recognises the State of Palestine. pic.twitter.com/yrg6Lywc1s

— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) September 21, 2025

Whilst continuing to call for the immediate release of all hostages, Plaid Cymru reiterates its long-standing call for the immediate and unconditional recognition of Palestine as well as an end to all arms sales to Israel, and calls for the UK to impose the following sanctions:

• Suspend the UK’s current trade agreement with Israel
• Suspend the 2030 Roadmap for a closer UK-Israel partnership
• Sanctions on all individuals suspected of breaching international law
• Ban the import of goods from illegal Israeli Settlements in Palestine

Earlier this week, the UN commission of inquiry concluded that Israel has committed genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.

Whilst welcoming the UK Government’s belated decision to recognise a Palestinian state – something Plaid Cymru has long campaigned for – Rhun ap Iorwerth criticised Keir Starmer for “sitting on his hands” instead of sanctioning Israel and ceasing all arms sales.

Plaid Cymru leader, Rhun ap Iorwerth MS said:

“With the UK Government finally recognising a Palestinian State this alone is not enough to hold Israel accountable nor end the suffering in Gaza.

“The Prime Minister must go further in holding the Israeli Government to account for its continued genocide against civilians in Gaza by imposing sanctions and halting all arms sales to the country.

“Keir Starmer has been sitting on his hands for too long on this issue. Meanwhile, innocent lives are being lost every day with many children among them.

“Recognition of a Palestine State is an important and historic step, but it is primarily a symbolic one.

“There is no indication that the Israeli Government intends to ease its attacks and so more tangible, practical action is still required with the aim of halting the violence and securing a ceasefire.

“The UK has a moral and legal responsibility to ensure Israel complies with international law, and urgent action is needed to prevent further humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.”