Labour Frontbenchers Defy Party Stance, Urge Public Ceasefire between Israel and Hamas

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is facing dissent within the party over its stance on the Israel-Hamas war, as several shadow ministers expressed support for a ceasefire. Sir Keir is backing the UK Government’s push for humanitarian “pauses” in the fighting, but not a full ceasefire. Downing Street has argued that a ceasefire would benefit Hamas, a proscribed terrorist group in the UK. Despite Labour’s official position, several frontbench MPs have called for a ceasefire, including those representing constituencies with prominent Muslim communities. The party has faced criticism both internally and externally for its stance. Meanwhile, Israel has continued its bombardment of Gaza, leading to widespread protests in support of the Palestinians in the UK and around the world. Despite the dissent from within the party, Sir Keir’s team has stated that Labour’s position remains unchanged and declined to comment on whether the shadow ministers calling for a ceasefire will face consequences. The growing rebellion comes after prominent figures such as London Mayor Sadiq Khan and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham also called for a ceasefire.



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