LONDON: Muslim members of the United Kingdom’s Labour Party emphasised the potential loss of support from Muslim voters if the party does not alter its stance on the Gaza conflict.
The Labour Muslim Network (LMN) comprising Muslim MPs, mayors, municipal councillors, and registered party members, issued a statement highlighting the deepening rift between the party and its traditionally loyal Muslim base, Anadolu Agency reported.
The statement underscored the findings of a recent survey indicating a fracture in the longstanding bond between the Labour Party and Muslim voters, citing the party’s response to the prolonged Israeli attacks in Gaza as a primary catalyst for the disenchantment.
“These findings come in the context of over 100 days of Israel’s continuous assault on Gaza … the Labour Party’s response has been unacceptable and deeply offensive to Muslims across Britain,” the statement read.
“Muslim voters have been watching and are now sending a clear message – they will not support any political party that does not fervently oppose the crimes committed against the people of Gaza. The Labour leadership must change paths now or risk losing the support of the Muslim community for a generation,” it added.
The Labour Party supports the government’s stance on Gaza, as well as its rhetoric of a “humanitarian pause” in the conflict and a “sustainable ceasefire”.
According to the British government, a “sustainable ceasefire” includes the destruction of Hamas so that it cannot threaten Israel again.
At least 27,365 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks since Oct 7, mostly women and children, and 66,630 others injured, according to Palestinian health authorities. – BERNAMA-ANADOLU
