UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has defended his government's conditional plan to recognize a Palestinian state, rejecting claims that it rewards Hamas or encourages extremism.

The statement follows fierce criticism from Israeli officials and families of hostages held in Gaza.

Starmer emphasized that the move is tied to a push for peace and international law, not a validation of violence.

His government is positioning the initiative as part of a broader strategy to pressure both sides into a ceasefire and diplomatic solution.