More than 100 Muslim Labour councillors have urged Keir Starmer to end all arms sales to Israel.
In an open letter, the Prime Minister was told by politicians from his own party that he had a ‘moral obligation’ to act given the growing death toll in Gaza.
Their demand comes despite Sir Keir taking steps against Israel since his party lost several seats at the election to pro-Palestinian independents.
The Government last month suspended 30 out of 350 British arms export licences to Israel – such as parts for fighter jets, helicopters and drones – over fears they could be used to break international humanitarian law in Gaza.
But the letter published yesterday by the Labour Muslim Network stated: ‘We are writing to you as Muslim Labour Councillors… to call for an immediate and complete suspension of arms sales to Israel.
Relatives of the dead who lost their lives in an Israeli attack mourn after the bodies are brought to Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis on October 17
Keir Starmer addresses a press conference at the British Embassy in Berlin, Friday Oct. 18
Smoke billows following Israeli bombardment in Nuseirat in the central Gaza Strip on August 11
An Israeli tank manoeuvres near the Israel-Gaza border, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, as seen from Israel, October 15
Palestinians walk beneath the tilted minaret of a destroyed mosque in the Shujaiya neighbourhood of Gaza City on October 7, 2024
Palestinians try to continue their daily lives among the destroyed buildings under difficult conditions as the Israeli attacks continue in in Gsaza City, Gaza on October 17
The tragic human toll we have seen has been unimaginable. We must not be complicit in these clear violations of international humanitarian law.’
Chairman of the Labour Muslim Network Ali Milani told LBC: ‘To have more than 100 councillors, cabinet members and chairs of different departments…sign it really speaks to the strength of feeling.’
Employment Minister Alison McGovern responded: ‘We want an end to this dreadful war that has seen so much damage to humanity.’