Labour faces backlash over Israel arms ban amid protests
- Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced a suspension of 30 arms export licenses to Israel, clarifying it is not a blanket ban.
- The decision faced criticism from various MPs, suggesting it was an attempt to appease the Labour left amid pro-Gaza protests.
- The Labour Party is experiencing internal tensions, particularly regarding winter fuel payments, indicating broader challenges ahead.
The UK government announced a partial suspension of 30 arms export licenses to Israel, a decision made by Foreign Secretary David Lammy. This move was perceived by some as an attempt to appease the Labour left and respond to pressure from pro-Gaza protests. However, it was clarified that this was not a blanket ban, as UK arms exports to Israel constitute only 1% of the total. The announcement led to mixed reactions within the Labour Party, with some members calling for more stringent measures against Israel. During a Parliamentary Labour Party meeting, ministers faced intense questioning regarding winter fuel payments, indicating broader concerns within the party. The Chancellor attempted to project unity within the party, despite evident dissent regarding the fuel payments issue. The situation reflects the ongoing tensions within Labour as it navigates internal divisions and external pressures related to foreign policy and domestic welfare issues.