Shadow Attorney General Emily Thornberry has intensified pressure on Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, demanding the UK government formally recognise Palestine as an independent state. The call comes amid escalating violence in Gaza and growing dissent within Labour ranks over the party's stance on the conflict.
Growing Labour Divide Over Palestine
Thornberry's intervention highlights deepening fractures within Labour, with several frontbenchers reportedly threatening to resign unless the party takes a stronger pro-Palestinian position. The Islington South MP argued that recognition would strengthen moderate Palestinian voices and weaken Hamas's influence.
Starmer's Delicate Balancing Act
Sir Keir Starmer faces mounting challenges in maintaining party unity while navigating the politically sensitive issue. His previous comments suggesting Israel had the right to cut off water and power to Gaza drew significant backlash from Labour members and MPs.
The Labour leader has since attempted to clarify his position, calling for humanitarian pauses in fighting but stopping short of demanding a full ceasefire - a position supported by many in his party.
International Pressure Mounts
The UK's stance on Palestine recognition lags behind 139 UN member states who already acknowledge Palestinian statehood. Thornberry emphasised that British recognition could influence other Western nations to follow suit, potentially altering the diplomatic landscape.
As civilian casualties in Gaza continue to rise, the pressure on UK political leaders to take decisive action grows increasingly urgent, with the Labour Party's internal divisions mirroring wider societal debates about the conflict.
