Families of Gaza hostages condemn French and U.K. moves to recognize a Palestinian state as rewarding terrorism while their loved ones remain captive by Hamas terrorists.
Families of hostages held in Gaza, along with a freed captive, are blasting Britain, France and other nations for deciding to recognize a Palestinian state, warning that these steps reward Hamas terrorists while dozens of hostages remain trapped underground.
The backlash came after British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced Tuesday that his government will formally recognize a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly in September unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire, allows U.N. aid and commits to a two‑state solution.
Emily Damari, a dual British‑Israeli citizen who survived Hamas captivity, posted on X, « As a Dual British-Israeli citizen who survived 471 days in Hamas captivity, I am deeply saddened by your decision Keir Starmer to recognize Palestinian statehood. This move does not advance peace—it risks rewarding terror. It sends a dangerous message: that violence earns legitimacy.
STARMER SAYS UK TO RECOGNIZE PALESTINIAN STATE IF ISRAEL DOESN’T AGREE TO CEASEFIRE, HAMAS MUST ‘DISARM’
« By legitimizing a state entity while Hamas still controls Gaza and continues its campaign of terror, you are not promoting a solution; you are prolonging the conflict.
