Sir Keir Starmer is under increasing pressure to recognise a Palestinian state, with more than a third of MPs signing a cross-party letter. 

MPs from nine political parties have backed the call, arguing that UK recognition would send a "powerful" message and a significant step toward a two-state solution. 

The letter puts added pressure on the prime minister after France committed to recognising a Palestinian statehood within months. 

In an earlier statement after a emergency call with Emmanuel Macron and Germany's Friedrich Merz, Sir Keir said a Palestinian statehood would have to be part of a "wider plan." 

He said: "Alongside our closest allies, I am working on a pathway to peace in the region, focused on the practical solutions that will make a real difference to the lives of those that are suffering in this war.

"That pathway will set out the concrete steps needed to turn the ceasefire so desperately needed, into a lasting peace.

"Recognition of a Palestinian state has to be one of those steps. I am unequivocal about that.

"But it must be part of a wider plan which ultimately results in a two-state solution and lasting security for Palestinians and Israelis."

Read the full story on the BBC website. 

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