Following controversy over the Labour party’s stance on the Israel-Hamas war, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is set to meet Muslim MPs to discuss the issue. The move comes after a visit to an Islamic centre in Cardiff, where a statement released by Sir Keir following the event was claimed to have “gravely misrepresented” the centre. At an LBC interview, he seemingly suggested that Israel had the “right” to cut off water and energy to Gaza; however, he later clarified his position to say that the country had a right to self-defence alone. The leader has already faced criticism with at least 19 Labour councillors resigning from the party, some MPs being critical about the leadership’s position and 30 MPs, including former party leader Jeremy Corbyn who is now independent, supporting a call for cease-fire.
Sources from the party confirmed that Sir Keir is to meet some of his Muslim MPs on Wednesday to address the issue. In a statement released on X, formerly Twitter, he explained that the visit had touched him and popularised his calls for all hostages to be released, the entry of more humanitarian help to Gaza and the water and power to be switched back on, and a renewed focus on the two-state solution while collectively emphasizing the importance of following international law.
The Muslim Council of Wales conveyed its disappointment about the statement and apologized to numerous disgruntled Muslims caused by the visit. The council was unhappy that Starmer’s statement “gravely misrepresented our congregants and the nature of the visit.” Hence they affirmed “unequivocally, the need for a free Palestine.”
Multiple Labour councillors have resigned from the party, with some alleging a lack of clarity from Starmer as the reason for their departure. The controversy has led to calls for clarity on the Labour party’s stance on Palestine and Israel to avoid misunderstanding and dissatisfaction among Muslims
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