GB News host Miriam Cates has accused Prime Minister Keir Starmer of “virtue signalling” in his recognition of Palestine as a state.

Political commentator Fahima Mohamed defended the recognition, arguing that Britain had fallen behind 147 other UN member states in acknowledging Palestine.

She contended that Palestinians had endured decades of occupation and denial of basic rights, emphasising this issue extended beyond Hamas to millions living under military control.

Speaking on Britain’s News Channel, GB News host Andrew Pierce said: “So how does what the British Prime Minister has done, along with the Australian and Canadian Governments, help the hostages in Gaza?

“How does it get them out? How does it help those who are starving? How does it improve anything on the ground?”

Ms Mohamed said: “Well, the first thing is that recognition means they have to uphold international law rather than ignore it.

“Several allies are now recognising Palestine, and this could allow them to push for sanctions on Israel, similar to how sanctions are applied to Russia.

“Recognition gives Palestinians rights that they already have under international law and could help enforce measures against violations Israel is currently getting away with.”

Miriam Cates said: “The Prime Minister coming out and saying that Palestine has a right to statehood could be seen as virtue signalling.

“On the ground, particularly in the Gaza Strip, there is no mechanism for becoming a state, no functioning government the only authority is a terrorist organisation and no plan for peace.

“This symbolic recognition risks provoking the situation and making it worse.”

The commentator responded: “The provocation lies in the fact that the recognition doesn’t immediately enforce any rights.

“It may, however, create some room for Palestinians to gain representation, especially since Hamas has been in power since 2007, when half the current population wasn’t even born.

“At the same time, pressure from the UK, its allies, and the US on Israel and Netanyahu is needed, because the situation will not improve unless Israel abides by international law.

“We cannot allow this to continue as it is. While it may be symbolic or “virtue signalling,” it is the first step, a skeleton of what could be.

“From a macro perspective, this is a starting point for Palestinians’ eventual freedom and self-determination.”

The Prime Minister has encountered mounting internal pressure regarding Palestinian sovereignty throughout the Gaza conflict.

Cabinet ministers numbering approximately ten had advocated for action, whilst over 130 parliamentarians endorsed correspondence supporting formal acknowledgement.

The Prime Minister had previously issued conditions to Israel in July, declaring that Britain would proceed with Palestinian recognition unless specific requirements were met.

These included establishing a ceasefire, demonstrating commitment to a two-state framework, and abandoning any plans to annex the occupied West Bank territories.