Britain’s recognition of the state of Palestine contributed to the peace process in the Middle East, Sir Keir Starmer has said.

The Prime Minister said the formal recognition of Palestine last month “helped lead to the historic New York Declaration” in which Arab leaders urged Hamas to end its rule in Gaza.

He claimed that the declaration was a “key and important aspect” of the ensuing peace deal, which saw the return of the surviving Israeli hostages on Monday.

US and Israeli politicians criticised the timing of the UK’s decision to recognise Palestine, claiming that it had set back peace negotiations.

But Sir Keir told MPs on Tuesday: “We’ve worked behind the scenes for months with the US, Arab and European nations to help deliver a ceasefire, get the hostages out, get aid in and secure a better future for Israel, Gaza and the West Bank.

“I am proud of our contribution and we are in a position to play this role precisely because of the approach this Government takes.”

He added: “That does include our decision to recognise the state of Palestine because this move, taken alongside our allies, France, Canada, Australia and others, helped lead to [the] historic New York Declaration, where for the first time the entire Arab League condemned the atrocities of Oct 7, urged Hamas to disarm and, crucially, demanded that they end their rule in Gaza.”