Hostage forum condemns ‘dangerous’ choice to recognize Palestinian state before hostages are freed

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum condemns the growing trend of European countries recognizing a Palestinian state, arguing that such diplomatic initiatives endanger the hostages.

“Recognizing a Palestinian state while 50 hostages remain trapped in Hamas tunnels amounts to rewarding terrorism. Such recognition is not a step toward peace, but rather a clear violation of international law and a dangerous moral and political failure that legitimizes horrific war crimes,” declares the group, which represents the families of the hostages.

“The abduction of men, women, and children, who are being held against their will in tunnels while subjected to starvation and physical and psychological abuse, cannot and should not serve as the foundation for establishing a state.”

“If the international community truly desires peace, it must join US efforts by demanding first the release of all hostages, followed by an end to the fighting,” the forum continues.

“Recognition of a Palestinian state before the hostages are returned will be remembered throughout history as validating terrorism as a legitimate pathway to political goals,” it adds. “The essential first step toward ensuring a better future for all peoples must be the release of all hostages through a single, comprehensive deal.”

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Tuesday that the UK  could recognize a Palestinian state in September unless Israel improves the situation in Gaza and takes steps toward peace.

France had announced the same days earlier, although without any preconditions, and Starmer’s announcement prompted Malta to follow suit.

Since October 7, Norway, Spain, Ireland and Slovenia have all recognized Palestine.

The UK has rebuffed criticism, including by US President Donald Trump, that it is rewarding Hamas.