Major powers recognizing a Palestinian state now would signal to Palestinians that the most barbaric variant of terrorism pays the highest dividend and has indeed brought them over the line. Support for Hamas would soar, despite the group sparking a war that left much of Gaza flattened, hundreds of thousands displaced and tens of thousands killed.

The truth is that Britain and France have most influence over Israel indirectly, through Mr Trump. He is the only leader who can press Mr Netanyahu into a ceasefire or to keep open the prospect of lasting peace. Alas, by moving to recognise a Palestinian state, Britain and France have lost influence with him, too. ■