But that declaration of victory now looks like hubris. Palestine is, again, the animating force within Labour’s internal politics. Sir Keir, a leader who defined himself against his members’ concern with the Middle East, will now be defined by it.

Starmer’s close ally Emmanuel Macron also announced his own plan for France to recognise Palestine last week – becoming the first G7 country to do so. Starmer initially refused, saying it had to be part of a wider plan for peace. But, after his declaration on Tuesday, the prime minister has denied this new decision is a U-turn to appease angry MPs.

Sir Keir Starmer had been under a lot of pressure to recognise Palestinian statehood. He was under pressure from more than 250 MPs who signed a letter urging recognition. He was under pressure from Jeremy Corbyn’s new left-wing party,