Former Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell and Jeremy Corbyn Face Criticism
Labour MP John McDonnell has ignited fury after participating in a pro-Palestine march on Armistice Day. McDonnell, alongside former party leader Jeremy Corbyn, was photographed alongside four other Labour MPs: Beth Winter, Zarah Sultana, Apsana Begum, and Richard Burgon. The MPs marched alongside activists who have expressed sympathy for Hamas, including Palestinian activist Ziad El Aloul. El Aloul has shared a video made by Hamas showing gunmen paragliding into battle and a picture of a fighter descending on Jerusalem's al-Aqsa mosque. In response to McDonnell's actions, one Labour MP has called for him to have the whip removed, just like Corbyn.
Accusations of Anti-Semitism and Incompatibility with Party Leadership
Labour MPs participating in the pro-Palestine march have faced accusations of anti-Semitism due to the presence of activists sympathetic to Hamas. A Tory MP, Mark Jenkinson, criticized Labour, stating that leading these marches is incompatible with being a member of a serious party. He called on Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer to take action and show some backbone. Another anonymous party insider argued that the MPs should be allowed to join the march, as the majority of Labour MPs support calls for a ceasefire.
Party Discipline Crumbles as Shadow Ministers Call for Ceasefire
The Labour Party has seen a breakdown in discipline as nearly 20 shadow ministers openly called for a ceasefire in Gaza. However, Sir Keir Starmer has maintained his stance on advocating for "humanitarian pauses" to allow aid into Gaza. Some shadow ministers are now being closely watched for potential resignations. Both John McDonnell and Ziad El Aloul were contacted for comment on their participation in the march.
