In a candid admission, Labour’s Deputy Leader David Lammy has described the party’s initial reaction to the ongoing Gaza conflict as “problematic,” stating that Sir Keir Starmer’s approach has set a “bad start” during his leadership. The criticism comes as Labour grapples with the fallout from its handling of the crisis, which has drawn ire from party members and the public alike.
Starmer’s Controversial Statements
In the early stages of the conflict, Starmer faced significant backlash for his failure to advocate for an immediate ceasefire. His remarks during an interview, where he suggested that Israel had the “right” to cut off essential supplies like power and water to Gaza, were particularly contentious. A spokesperson later clarified that Starmer intended to refer broadly to Israel’s right to self-defence, but the damage had already been done.
On BBC Radio 4’s The Week in Westminster, Lammy reflected on Starmer’s comments, asserting, “What he said came out all wrong.” This misstep has been amplified by the rising tensions and humanitarian concerns in Gaza, leaving many within the party feeling disillusioned.
Apologies from Party Leadership
Andy Burnham, the party’s expected next leader and a prominent voice during the crisis, publicly apologised for Labour’s handling of the situation. He acknowledged that the party “didn’t get it right,” expressing regret for the hurt caused by their initial stance. Burnham’s reflection comes as calls for a ceasefire have intensified among Labour officials and the wider public.
In a heartfelt social media post, Burnham reiterated his condemnation of the Hamas attacks on October 7, while also denouncing rising antisemitism in the UK. His sentiments were echoed by several senior Labour figures who had begun advocating for a ceasefire by late October 2023, recognising the urgent need for a shift in the party’s position.
The Broader Implications of Foreign Policy
Lammy also addressed the intersection of foreign and domestic policy, cautioning against the tendency for leaders to become overly focused on international issues at the expense of pressing local concerns. He highlighted that the ongoing cost-of-living crisis has been exacerbated by global events, including the pandemic and the war in Ukraine.
“The two are indivisible,” Lammy stated, emphasising that the ramifications of foreign policy decisions reach into the everyday lives of citizens. As the situation in Gaza unfolds, the Labour Party must navigate the fine line between international solidarity and domestic responsibility.
Why it Matters
Labour’s struggle to articulate a coherent and compassionate response to the Gaza conflict reflects a broader challenge for the party as it seeks to regain public trust. The missteps highlighted by Lammy and Burnham reveal not only the internal divisions but also the critical importance of aligning foreign policy positions with humanitarian principles. As the crisis continues to escalate, Labour’s ability to respond effectively will play a pivotal role in its future electoral success and its standing as a compassionate voice on the global stage.