Sir Keir Starmer faced an awkward question from a US journalist over his plan to recognise a Palestinian state during a joint press conference with Donald Trump. The reporter asked the Prime Minster why he was "waiting for President Trump to leave the country" before going ahead with the move.
It comes after reports that Keir held off on formally announcing the UK will recognise a Palestinian state until after Mr Trump leaves for fear it could dominate the press conference. The journalist asked: "If you feel so strongly about officially recognising Palestine for statehood why are you waiting for President Trump to leave the country? Why can't you just do it right now? Isn't there a risk in rewarding Hamas with that?"
The PM replied: "Let me be really clear about Hamas. They are a terrorist organisation who can have no part in any future governance in Palestine."
At this point, Mr Trump patted the Prime Minister on the back and laughed as he said "that's good".
Sir Keir went on: "What happened on October 7 was the worst attack since the Holocaust.
"We have extended family in Israel, I understand first hand the psychological impact that had across Israel.
"So I know exactly where I stand in relation to Hamas."
