Sir Keir Starmer Faces Party Splits Over Israel Remarks

Labour MP Rebuked for Controversial Israel Phrases

The Labour Party is facing escalating infighting as tensions rise over comments made by a party member regarding Israel. Frontbencher Peter Kyle criticized left-winger Andy McDonald for using the phrase "between the river and the sea" at a pro-Palestine rally over the weekend.

Warning of Heightened Tensions

Kyle, a Shadow Cabinet Minister, warned that using such a phrase could increase tensions. He stated, "I don't think that people should use that phrase because of the impact it has." McDonald has also suggested that Israel is "ethnically cleansing" Palestinians in Gaza.

Controversial Phrase Sparks Debate

The phrase "between the river and the sea" is seen by many Jews as a call for the complete elimination of Israel, extending from the River Jordan to the Mediterranean Sea. McDonald's comments received support from ally John McDonnell, who defended him by stating that it was a "misrepresentation" and about "how people can live together."

Pressure on Sir Keir Starmer

Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, is facing increased pressure from within his party over the issue of Israel. Senior Tory MP Simon Clarke criticized McDonald's comments, accusing him of tiptoeing up to the line and daring Labour to respond. The leader of the Labour Party has not backed a flat-out ceasefire by Israel, causing tensions within the party.

Attempts to Downplay Splits

In an attempt to downplay the divisions, Shadow Science Secretary Peter Kyle described the differing positions as "dancing on the head of a pin" and suggested that a few frontbench rebels would not be sacked. He also argued that differences of opinion can be viewed as a strength.

Fears of Backlash from Muslim Voters

Many Labour MPs and councillors are concerned about a potential backlash from millions of Muslim voters if the party does not call for a ceasefire. Kyle emphasized that the focus should be on the ongoing conflict and human tragedies, rather than on winning or losing votes.

Support for Israel's Right to Defend Itself

Former Labour MP Lord Walney cautioned that downplaying the scale of internal disagreement within the party by equating a pause with a ceasefire would weaken the party's support for Israel's right to defend itself against what he referred to as "antisemitic horror."