Pakistan, Aug. 1 -- British Trade Minister Gareth Thomas said the UK's decision to recognize Palestine as a state follows international law. He explained that state recognition is a political choice, but Palestine meets key global standards. These include a permanent population, defined borders, a functioning government, and the ability to build foreign relations. These conditions are outlined in the 1933 Montevideo Convention.

This statement comes after UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a September deadline. If Israel does not accept the UK's proposed peace plan, Britain will recognize Palestine as a state before the UN General Assembly meets. The plan demands a ceasefire in Gaza, a halt to West Bank annexation, and Israel's retu...