Trump and Starmer's Diplomatic Dialogue: The Palestinian State Dilemma

In a diplomatic exchange aboard Air Force One, U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that he and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer did not broach the subject of recognizing a Palestinian state during their recent meeting in Scotland. Trump clarified that the conversation did not involve London's potential plans at the UN General Assembly.

Amid rising public concern over images depicting the dire conditions faced by children in Gaza, Starmer announced Britain's intention to push for the recognition of Palestine at the upcoming September assembly session. However, Trump expressed reservations, specifically targeting the potential undermining of efforts against the militant group Hamas.

Trump emphasized the strategic use of U.S. aid, focusing on ensuring that financial support to Gaza is effectively deployed towards food aid. "I want to guarantee that the funds are judiciously allocated and that food distribution is managed correctly," he remarked to the media during his flight back to the United States.

(With inputs from agencies.)