U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Tuesday said the United Kingdom will recognize a Palestinian state if Israel does not agree to a cease-fire in Gaza by September.

Starmer said the Israeli government must take "substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza" by agreeing to a cease-fire and committing to a lasting peace, the BBC reported.

The United Kingdom will announce its recognition of a Palestinian state before the U.N. General Assembly, which is scheduled to start on Sept. 9, Starmer said in his ultimatum.

"Ultimately, the only way to bring this humanitarian crisis to an end is through a long-term settlement," Starmer told media.

"Our goal remains a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state," he added, "but, right now, that goal is under

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