Labour leader Keir Starmer has held a deeply emotional meeting with the families of British hostages being held by Hamas in Gaza, promising to take their concerns to the heart of government.
The private gathering, described as "harrowing" by attendees, saw Starmer listen intently to the families' pleas for greater action to secure their loved ones' release. Many relatives broke down in tears as they shared their agonising wait for news.
"We Will Not Forget You"
Starmer told the families: "Your voices will be heard. We will not forget you or your loved ones." The Labour leader pledged to raise the issue directly with international partners and push for all possible diplomatic channels to be explored.
Growing Pressure on Government
The meeting comes amid mounting pressure on the UK government to intensify efforts to free the hostages. Several families have criticised what they see as insufficient action from ministers since the October 7th attacks.
One family member present at the meeting said: "After months of feeling ignored, it was refreshing to have someone actually listen. But we need more than sympathy - we need results."
Labour's Evolving Position
Starmer's engagement marks a significant moment in Labour's approach to the Middle East conflict. The party has faced criticism from some quarters over its stance on Gaza, but this personal intervention suggests a more humanitarian-focused direction.
Political analysts suggest the meeting could help Starmer connect with Jewish communities and others concerned about the hostages' plight, potentially reshaping perceptions of Labour's foreign policy credentials.
