Key facts
- Andy Burnham apologized for Labour's initial response to Israel's military actions in Gaza.
- Burnham stated the party "didn't get it right" and needs to "do better."
- He vowed to consider sanctions on Israeli settlers and a ban on trade with illegal settlements.
- Burnham deferred the determination of genocide to international courts, while noting evidence of war crimes.
- Pro-Palestine groups urged "decisive action" and an arms embargo on Israel.
Andy Burnham, a prominent figure in the Labour Party, has issued an apology for the party's initial stance on Israel's military actions in Gaza, admitting that they "didn't get it right" and must "do better."
Burnham indicated a potential shift in approach, stating he would increase pressure on the Israeli government through measures such as sanctions on individuals and entities involved in violence, and potentially banning trade with illegal settlements. He acknowledged that the UK had been "too slow to call for a ceasefire" and that the party's response had "too often not been good enough."
While expressing deep concern over the destruction in Gaza and noting "increasing evidence" of war crimes, Burnham deferred the determination of genocide to international courts. This stance drew criticism from the Green party's deputy leader, Mothin Ali, who accused Burnham of using international courts as a shield to avoid halting arms sales.
The apology may also create friction with Labour leader Keir Starmer, who faced significant backlash for his early remarks following the Hamas attacks in October 2023. Many Muslim and progressive voters felt alienated by the party's position, with a significant portion of Labour voters who switched to the Green party citing Gaza as a key reason.
Burnham also sought to reassure Jewish communities, condemning antisemitism and Hamas's attacks, while emphasizing a balanced approach to holding the Netanyahu government accountable. He criticized the rise in settler violence and the expansion of illegal settlements, suggesting they undermine the possibility of a two-state solution.