In a significant move, 56 Members of Parliament (MPs) from the British Labour Party, along with support from another opposition party, have called on the UK government to urge a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
This vote places pressure on Labour Party leader Keir Starmer, especially as several members of his political team supported this initiative.
However, the parliament did not pass the request or what is known as an “amendment,” which is an “additional proposal for the government’s agenda for the next year.” Therefore, it will not become law. Nevertheless, the substantial support from Labour Party lawmakers for the amendment advocating a ceasefire demonstrates the party’s concerns regarding the Middle East conflict.
Approximately one-third of the 198 Labour Party members of parliament supported the amendment put forth by the Scottish National Party, which called on the government to join the international community in urgently pressuring all parties to agree to a ceasefire.
Starmer, like Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, also called for a “humanitarian ceasefire” to facilitate aid delivery to Gaza instead of a ceasefire, which they argue would allow Hamas to regroup after its attack on October 7th.
Earlier on Wednesday, the United Nations Security Council adopted a draft resolution presented by the Maltese mission to the council, focusing on the issue of “protecting children” in Gaza. The resolution called for a “humanitarian truce” and the provision of “assistance” to those in need.
As the conflict in Gaza entered its 40th day, Israeli airstrikes continue, and clashes persist in multiple areas. The region is facing a humanitarian and health crisis, with hospitals being overwhelmed.
The toll of Israeli airstrikes on Gaza has exceeded 11,500 people, including 4,710 children, over 3,130 women, and nearly 198 medical personnel. Additionally, 21 civil defense personnel and 51 journalists have been affected. Over 29,000 people have been injured, with more than 70% of them being children and women.
