Politics Weekly UK Labour takes action over Gaza: what took them so long? – Politics Weekly UK
May 22, 2025
Melanie Ward, Labour MP and former Chief Executive of Medical Aid for Palestinians, dives into the UK's delayed response to the Gaza crisis. She emphasizes the humanitarian issues, particularly the threats to children. Rafael Behr, a Guardian columnist, discusses the shifting public sentiment around Brexit amidst the ongoing crisis, while Sophie Stowers, Research Manager at More In Common, highlights the evolving landscape of political rhetoric and public trust. The conversation calls for immediate action and international support in Gaza, urging a humanitarian focus.
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Everyday Terror in Gaza
- Melanie Ward witnessed firsthand how constant conflict made life in Gaza terrifying and normalised distress.
- Her Palestinian colleagues showed resilience but conveyed a devastating acceptance of ongoing violence.
UK's Shift Toward Condemning Israel
- The UK government's recent sanctions and trade talk suspensions mark a significant tone shift toward condemning Israel's actions.
- Multilateral action increases pressure effectively compared to isolated national efforts.
Delayed UK Response Critically Noted
- The UK government's moral outrage is overdue; Israeli plans were clear 18 months ago, demanding earlier response.
- Acknowledging this delay is crucial to understanding current political stances.