President Donald Trump playfully considered dismissing his Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. He stated that he would keep her despite receiving overwhelmingly negative press coverage. Trump believes the public does not trust the media. Leavitt has a history of confronting reporters
April 2026: 5 simple ways to attract positive energy and clarityThis is not a month to rush or force clarity. Instead, it is a time to slow down, stabilise your energy, and let things fall into place naturally. Published on: Apr 01, 2026 10:29 AM IST Edited by Kanakanjali Roy Share via Copy link
Overall conditions in Delhi are expected to remain variable, with a mix of brief cooling, rising temperatures and intermittent rainfall. No extreme weather is forecast yet. Today’s Weather: Delhi-NCR witnessed unseasonal rain on Tuesday, leading to a drop in daytime temperatures
‘We are deeply disturbed’: Raqesh Bapat’s family slams Vishal Kotian over personal remarks, clash on Bigg Boss Marathi 6Raqesh Bapat landed in a heated controversy on Bigg Boss Marathi 6 as his clash with Vishal Kotian escalated from a verbal spat to a physical altercation. Apr 1, 2026
Petrol & Diesel Price Hike: Oil marketing companies (OMCs) have increased the prices of premium fuels in Delhi, even as volatility in global energy markets continues amid the ongoing US-Iran conflict. The price of IndianOil’s XP100 petrol, India’s first 100-octane premium fuel
Starmer set to announce UK recognition of Palestinian state
Starmer set to announce UK recognition of Palestinian state
Sir Keir Starmer is expected to announce the UK's recognition of a Palestinian state in a statement on Sunday afternoon.
The prime minister said in July that the UK would shift its position unless Israel met several conditions, including agreeing to a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and committing to a long-term peace process leading to a Palestinian state co-existing alongside Israel.
The Israeli leadership has ruled this out since the start of the war following Hamas's attack in southern Israel on 7 October 2023 in which 1,200 people were killed and 251 taken hostage.
The PM's move has drawn fierce criticism from the Israeli government, families of hostages held in Gaza and some Conservatives.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu previously said recognition of a Palestinian state "rewards terror".
The decision to recognise a Palestinian state represents a major change in UK foreign policy, after successive governments said recognition should come as part of a peace process and at a time of maximum impact.
However, ministers argue there was a moral responsibility to act to keep hopes of a long-term peace alive.
Efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza - let alone a long-term solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict - have faltered. Israel sparked international outrage when it carried out an air strike on a Hamas negotiating team in Qatar.
Government sources said the situation on the ground had also worsened significantly in the last few weeks. They cited images showing starvation and violence in Gaza, which Sir Keir previously described as "intolerable".
Israel's latest ground operation in Gaza City, described by a UN official as "cataclysmic", has forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee.
It is the latest Israeli offensive in the nearly two-year war which has seen much of the Palestinian territory's population displaced, its infrastructure destroyed, and at least 65,208 people killed, according to Hamas-run health ministry figures.
Earlier this week, a United Nations commision of inquiry concluded Israel had committed genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, which Israel denounced as "distorted and false".
Ministers have also highlighted the continued expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, which are illegal under international law, as a key factor in the decision to recognise Palestinian statehood.
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy said "now is the time to stand up for" a two-state solution.
He told the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg: "Will this feed children? No, it won't. That's down to humanitarian aid. Will it free hostages? That must be down to a ceasefire.
But does this mean that you get, or hold out for, that two-state solution and stand by the Palestinian cause being a just cause? That was the determination that I and the prime minister made at the end of July.
Lammy said the timing of the recognition had been made "based on what's happening on the ground".
He cited the controversial E1 settlement project - which critics warn would put an end to hopes for a viable, contiguous Palestinian state - and the recent Israeli strike in Qatar.
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas welcomed the UK's recognition pledge when he visited Sir Keir earlier this month, with Downing Street saying both leaders had agreed Hamas should play no role in the future governance of Palestine.
Husam Zomlot, its UK representative, told the BBC that recognition would mean "ending the denial of our existence" and that "the British people should celebrate today, when history is being corrected, when wrongs are being righted".
The question is never why should the UK recognise the state of Palestine," Zomlot said, "the question is why didn't the UK recognise the state of Palestine all along?
He added: "Recognition is not a gift, it's not a favour, it's an inalienable right."
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said she wanted to see a two-state solution in the Middle East.
But she wrote in The Telegraph over the weekend: "It is obvious, and the US has been clear on this, that recognition of a Palestinian state at this time and without the release of the hostages, would be a reward for terrorism."
Meanwhile, in an open letter to Sir Keir on Saturday, family members of some of the hostages taken by Hamas urged the prime minister not to take the step until the 48 still in Gaza, of whom 20 are thought to still be alive, had been returned.
The announcement of the forthcoming recognition had "dramatically complicated efforts to bring home our loved ones", they wrote. "Hamas has already celebrated the UK's decision as a victory and reneged on a ceasefire deal."
Asked about this, Lammy said he had been discussing the issue with relatives, adding: "I think it's also right to say that there are many hostage families who are shocked and appalled that the prospects of a ceasefire have been set back just in the recent days."
He also said it was important to recognise that "Hamas is not the Palestinian people".
Sources in government said ministers will be setting out next steps for sanctioning the group in the coming weeks.
During a state visit to the UK this week, US President Donald Trump also said he disagreed with recognition.
Sir Keir had set a deadline of the UN General Assembly meeting, which takes place this week, for Israel to take "substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza, agree to a ceasefire and commit to a long-term, sustainable peace, reviving the prospect of a two-state solution".
He said in July: "With that solution now under threat, this is the moment to act."
A number of other countries including Portugal, France, Canada and Australia have also said they will recognise a Palestinian state, while Spain, Ireland and Norway took the step last year.
Palestine is currently recognised by around 75% of the UN's 193 member states, but has no internationally agreed boundaries, no capital and no army - making recognition largely symbolic.
The two-state solution refers to the creation of a Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, with East Jerusalem as its capital. Israel currently occupies both the West Bank and Gaza, meaning the Palestinian Authority is not in full control of its land or people.
Recognising a Palestinian state has long been a cause championed by many within the Labour Party. The PM has been under mounting pressure to take a tougher stance on Israel, particularly from MPs on the left of his party.
Shortly before he gave his speech in July, more than half of Labour MPs signed a letter calling for the government to immediately recognise a Palestinian state.
However, critics questioned why the government had appeared to put conditions on Israel but not Hamas.
Britain's Chief Rabbi, Sir Ephraim Mirvis, called on the government to pause its decision.
"The intended recognition is not contingent upon a functioning or democratic Palestinian government, nor even upon the most basic commitment to a peaceful future," he said.
Astonishingly, it is not even conditional upon the release of the 48 hostages who remain in captivity.
Government sources insisted their demands for Hamas to release the hostages and agree to a ceasefire had not changed.
But officials in the Foreign Office argued statehood was a right of the Palestinian people and could not be dependent on Hamas, which the government considers a terrorist organisation.
Source: BBC
Related Posts: Starmer set to announce UK recognition of Palestinian state on Sunday Starmer set to announce UK recognition of Palestinian state on Sunday Starmer set to announce UK recognition of Palestinian state on Sunday UK PM Keir Starmer Joins European Allies In Backing Ukraine Ahead Of Zelenskyy-Trump Talks UK leader Keir Starmer backs his Treasury chief over claims she misled the public about the economy UK PM Keir Starmer lands in Mumbai for first India visit UK PM Keir Starmer tries to shore up authority Keir Starmer reaches China for 3-day visit UK PM Keir Starmer Arrives In Mumbai For First Official Visit UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Arrives In India On BA 9100
A group of retired civil servants and former diplomats on Tuesday expressed concerns about a recent order issued by Assam’s special chief secretary for environment deploying about 1,600 personnel of the state’s forest protection force for duties related to the upcoming Assembly elections
1 days ago
Nita Ambani wows in minimal look for Mumbai Indians team dinner; her pink diamond earrings are anything but simpleNita Ambani hosted the Mumbai Indians team at the Ambani residence, Antilia. She wore a simple floral look for the occasion, styled with diamond jewels. Updated on: Apr 01
1 days ago
Editorial independence is core to our work. Some links may earn us a commission, without influencing our opinions.Frustrated with slow tablets? These top 5 reliable tablets fix that, picks from Samsung, Apple, Xiaomi, moreThese tablets come with newer and faster processors and adequate storage
1 days ago
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed their decision on Fakhar Zaman on Tuesday following the ball tampering incident in Lahore Qalandars vs Karachi Kings fixture held on Sunday at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Fakhar Zaman has received a two-match suspension in the Pakistan Super League (PSL)
1 days ago
Does your house have a concrete roof or a thatched one? What is your main cereal? Do you have internet access - or just a basic mobile phone? And how many married couples live under your roof? These are among the 33 questions that more than a billion Indians will be asked as the country launches
1 days ago
Divorced couples in Japan are now allowed to share custody of their children, after a landmark revision to Japan's Civil Code took effect on Wednesday. Before the amendment was approved by parliament in 2024, Japan was the only G7 country that did not recognise the legal concept of joint custody
1 days ago
Dubai, Apr 1 (AP) US President Donald Trump told reporters Tuesday that the responsibility for keeping the Strait of Hormuz open should belong with countries that rely on it, rather than the US. He said there’s “no reason for us to do this." Trump expressed frustration earlier Tuesday with
1 days ago
The buzz around the rebranded Lucknow Super Giants team is high ahead of the new Indian Premier League season. The Shaheed Path highway here, which leads into the city from the airport, is dotted with flags and cutouts of the host side’s players on the eve of their campaign opener against Delhi
1 days ago
Miss India Nikita Porwal brings celestial beauty to fashion awards, fans call her a goddess: 'Miss World right there'Miss India Nikita Porwal shines on the red carpet in a stunning gown adorned with shimmering pearls and crystals that caught the light with every movement. Published on: Apr 01
1 days ago
April Full Moon 2026: Tarot guidance and rituals for each zodiac signPink Moon 2026: Even if you do not believe in tarot or moon rituals, taking a few quiet moments for yourself can still feel calming and helpful. Updated on: Apr 01, 2026 9:30 AM IST By Kanakanjali Roy Share via Copy link The Full
1 days ago
In a first for the country, the Ministry of Mines informed on Tuesday (March 31, 2026) that thirty mineral blocks have been made operational in a single financial year, that is, FY 2025-26. Essential to note, most of the blocks that have been made operational are that of limestone
1 days ago
Having risen steadily over time, the share of Indian households who use liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as their primary source of fuel for cooking is now at 60% as of 2024. Another 33% of households still used firewood. This data comes from India's Household Consumption Expenditure Surveys
1 days ago
Reliance Jio is known for its innovative offerings, whether it’s free internet or budget-friendly recharge plans. Now, the company is venturing into the electric bike market with an upcoming e-bike that promises to feature remarkable specifications
1 days ago
Italy shattered as distraught players left in tears after missing World Cup for third straight time - See Photos Updated on: Apr 01, 2026 10:35 AM IST Written by Aditya Maheshwari Share via Copy link Italy's Marco Palestra, left, and Leonardo Spinazzola console each other after losing a penalty
1 days ago
Editorial independence is core to our work. Some links may earn us a commission, without influencing our opinions.Struggling with calls on the go? These 5 premium earphones feature crystal clear callingWireless earphones designed for clear calling focus on strong microphones
1 days ago
KEAM Admit Card 2026 releasing today at cee.kerala.gov.in, here's how to download Published on: Apr 01, 2026 9:06 AM IST By HT Education Desk | Edited by Papri Chanda Prefer HTon Google Quick Read Share via Copy link The Commissioner for Entrance Examinations, Kerala
1 days ago
The new financial year FY 2025-2026 has kicked in from today. Check key financial and regulatory changes. New Delhi: India will see a slew of financial and regulatory changes with the beginning of the new fiscal year on April 1, 2026, affecting taxes, fuel, banking and rail travel
1 days ago
Your IPL plans are officially sorted! From electric rooftop screenings to laid-back dine-ins, here’s where you should be catching every six, wicket, and last-over thriller with your gang. For all the craft beer lovers, this one’s a no-brainer. Expect great brews, live match energy
1 days ago
Malayalam filmmaker and screenwriter Ranjith Balakrishnan was arrested after a sexual assault complaint filed by a young female actor. Ernakulam: Prominent Malayalam director-producer Ranjith was arrested following an alleged sexual assault complaint filed against him by a young actress
1 days ago
Observing that the legality, validity and propriety of transfer orders issued by the Election Commission of India (ECI) have not caused any public injury, the Calcutta High Court on Tuesday (March 31, 2026) dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) challenging the transfer of administrative and
1 days ago
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, the teenage prodigy's explosive knock helped RR chase down CSK’s modest total with ease on Sunday, securing an eight-wicket victory and etching his name among the fastest fifty-makers in IPL history. In a sensational start to the IPL 2026 season, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
1 days ago
Unlike the F-35 Lightning II, the AMCA is designed for full operational control and allows the country to integrate its own sensors, AI and weapons without outside approval. New Delhi: The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) has introduced a new level of capability for the Indian Air Force (IAF)
1 days ago
Actor Vicky Kaushal has finally reacted to Dhurandhar: The Revenge, praising director Aditya Dhar and the team behind the film. Taking to Instagram, Vicky wrote, “I’m so shook, so proud and in absolute awe of the craft, hard work and sincerety with which you have made this film
1 days ago
Celebrate April Fool’s Day 2026 with over 50 easy, simple, and funny pranks for friends, family, home, school, and office. Discover harmless ideas that guarantee laughs and fun for everyone! April Fool’s Day is just around the corner! On April 1, 2026
1 days ago
'Ranbir Kapoor reminded of Arun Govil': Fan praises actor's Lord Rama turn in Ramayana, gifts Ram Mandir-inspired vestThe first look of Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama in Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana was unveiled to a select audience in Los Angeles a few days ago. Apr 1, 2026
1 days ago
Vande Bharat passenger claims food gave her allergy, IRCTC says ‘lunch was satisfactory’A Vande Bharat passenger claimed that eating the food served on the train gave her a severe allergic reaction, while her two-year-old son developed diarrhoea Updated on: Apr 01
1 days ago
New Delhi, Apr 1 (PTI) Aviation stocks were in high demand in morning trade on Wednesday, with InterGlobe Aviation climbing over 9 per cent, despite jet fuel price hike. InterGlobe Aviation, the parent firm of IndiGo, after starting the trade on a positive note further jumped 9.41 per cent to Rs 4
1 days ago
