Britain and Portugal are expected to formally recognize a Palestinian state this week, joining a growing number of nations ahead of a crucial UN General Assembly debate. This move aims to pressure Israel amid its intensified offensive in Gaza following Hamas's October 2023 attack, which has led to a severe humanitarian crisis.

• Approximately 10 nations are anticipated to recognize a Palestinian state in the coming days.
• UK Labour leader Keir Starmer stated Britain would recognize Palestine if Israel did not take "substantive steps" towards a ceasefire.
• The war, triggered by Hamas's attack that killed 1,219 people, has resulted in at least 65,208 deaths in Gaza.