After former hostage Emily Damari panned the UK’s plan to potentially recognize a Palestinian state in September if Israel does not reach a ceasefire with Hamas and improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza,

But that declaration of victory now looks like hubris. Palestine is, again, the animating force within Labour’s internal politics. Sir Keir, a leader who defined himself against his members’ concern with the Middle East, will now be defined by it.

Starmer’s close ally Emmanuel Macron also announced his own plan for France to recognise Palestine last week – becoming the first G7 country to do so. Starmer initially refused, saying it had to be part of a wider plan for peace. But, after his declaration on Tuesday, the prime minister has denied this new decision is a U-turn to appease angry MPs.