Keir Starmer is confronting a growing rebellion within the Labour Party over the conflict in Gaza, with four shadow ministers prepared to resign in the coming days and up to ten others on 'resignation watch'. The Labour leader has refused to back calls for a ceasefire, instead advocating for a 'humanitarian pause' in hostilities.
Sources indicate that as many as a dozen shadow ministers are willing to quit rather than vote against a ceasefire motion. Labour MPs report intense pressure from party members and constituents to take a firmer stance against the Israeli invasion of Gaza, as tens of thousands are expected to attend pro-Palestinian protests in London this weekend.
The rebellion follows the resignation of Imran Hussain on Tuesday night. A Labour official said party leaders are closely monitoring up to 15 shadow ministers with high numbers of Muslim constituents for signs they may quit. One frontbencher told the Guardian: 'My position has always been that the only way forward is a ceasefire. The pause will not solve the problem.'
Starmer angered many in his party last month when he suggested Israel had the right to withhold electricity and water from Gaza civilians, though he later clarified his remarks and expressed support for Palestinian statehood. However, his refusal to back a ceasefire threatens to reopen internal divisions.
The Scottish National Party is considering forcing a vote on a ceasefire during the king's speech debates next week. Labour whips have instructed MPs not to support such a motion, but several frontbenchers are reportedly willing to resign to do so. One said: 'The vote is going to be the moment. The death toll is far too horrific.'
Starmer could avoid a confrontation if the Commons speaker refuses to call a ceasefire vote, or if the international community, led by the US, shifts its position. The White House has warned Israel against reoccupying Gaza, signalling a potential change in stance.
