The Foreign Ministry responded to Britain's decision to recognize a Palestinian state in September unless there is a change in the situation in the Gaza Strip, stating that 'Israel rejects the announcement by the British Prime Minister.' According to the ministry's statement, 'The change in the British government's position at the current time, following the French move and internal political pressures, constitutes a reward for Hamas and harms attempts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza and an outline for the release of hostages.'