British Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander responded to claims by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that Britain's intention to recognize a Palestinian state is a "reward for Hamas." According to the minister, who was instructed by her government to answer questions on the matter, "It is not a reward for Hamas - it is an abhorrent terrorist organization that has committed horrific atrocities." She emphasized that the British ultimatum "concerns the Palestinian people, and the children we see in Gaza who are dying of starvation." British Prime Minister Keir Starmer set an ultimatum stating that Britain will recognize a Palestinian state in September, "unless Israel takes significant steps to end the situation in Gaza."