Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is facing mounting criticism over his stance on Israel's military operations in Gaza, as international scrutiny of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government intensifies.
During a recent interview, Starmer appeared to endorse Israel's right to withhold power and water from Gaza - comments that have drawn sharp rebukes from human rights groups and political opponents.
Growing Pressure on Labour Leader
The controversy comes at a sensitive time for Starmer, who has sought to distance Labour from the anti-Semitism controversies of the Jeremy Corbyn era while maintaining support among the party's left-wing base.
Several Labour MPs have publicly disagreed with Starmer's position, with some calling for stronger condemnation of Israel's blockade tactics in the Hamas-controlled territory.
Netanyahu's Hardline Approach
Meanwhile, Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing coalition government faces growing international criticism over its handling of the Gaza situation and settlement expansion policies in the West Bank.
Political analysts suggest Starmer's comments may have been an attempt to position Labour as a reliable partner for Israel, but the strategy appears to have backfired among progressive voters.
Humanitarian Concerns
Human rights organisations have warned that cutting off essential supplies to Gaza's civilian population could constitute a violation of international law.
The United Nations has called for immediate humanitarian access to the territory, where power shortages are affecting hospitals and water treatment facilities.
As the political fallout continues, Starmer faces the challenge of balancing Labour's traditional support for Palestinian rights with his efforts to rebuild trust with Britain's Jewish community.
