US Vice-President JD Vance has voiced doubts over Britain’s intention to formally recognise a Palestinian state this September if Israel does not meet specific conditions.
His comments came during talks with Foreign Secretary David Lammy at Chevening House in Kent, as part of a visit that combined official diplomacy with family holiday plans.
Vance said the United States would not be taking the same step, pointing to the lack of a functioning Palestinian government and the need to ensure Hamas is removed from power to prevent further attacks on Israeli civilians.
He also stressed the importance of tackling the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
While both countries share aims for peace, he acknowledged that differences exist on how to achieve it.
Lammy raised concerns about Israel’s reported intention to increase its control in Gaza, warning this could worsen the situation.
He repeated the UK’s call for an immediate ceasefire, the safe release of hostages, and urgent humanitarian aid for those trapped in the conflict.
The foreign secretary said Britain’s decision on Palestinian recognition is aimed at creating momentum towards a two-state solution, but only if certain conditions are met.
Beyond Gaza, the two leaders discussed the war in Ukraine.
Lammy cautioned against the possibility of Russian President Vladimir Putin using talks with Donald Trump to impose terms on Ukraine without Kyiv’s involvement.
He said any negotiations must begin with a ceasefire and ensure that European security is not undermined.
The meeting took place in an unusually informal setting, beginning with a morning of carp fishing in the grounds of the 17th-century residence.
Vance remarked that his children all caught fish, while Lammy was less successful. The light-hearted moment contrasted with the weight of the political topics on the agenda.
Relations between the two men have grown over regular meetings in recent months, shaped by shared personal experiences and their Christian faith.
However, Vance has previously criticised UK and European policies on free speech, religious rights, and migration, arguing that Western nations risk drifting away from their values.
He said these concerns also applied to the United States in recent years, warning against repeating what he views as past mistakes.
Vance’s visit to the UK is part of a summer break, with time planned in the Cotswolds and a trip to Scotland.
It follows Donald Trump’s recent private visit to his golf courses in Scotland, during which the US president met Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and EU chief Ursula von der Leyen, agreeing a trade deal with the bloc ahead of a full state visit in September.