Birmingham, UK: The Birmingham Labour Party has announced a significant shift in its approach to the occupied Palestinian territories, calling for tougher measures against Israeli settlements and reaffirming its commitment to Palestinian rights.
The announcement was made during an urgent press conference at Regent Park Banqueting Hall in Birmingham, where senior Labour councillors and party representatives discussed the conflict in Gaza, the occupation of Palestinian territories, and the UK Government’s approach to Israel.
The party leadership highlighted the Labour Government’s recognition of the State of Palestine in 2025, describing it as a landmark step towards achieving a two-state solution that recognises the rights and aspirations of both Palestinians and Israelis.
Speakers said that, for too long, Labour had been perceived as a party that condemned injustice without taking meaningful action. They argued that the party’s record in Birmingham and its approach in government demonstrated a commitment to translating its position into concrete measures.
Birmingham Labour’s record on Palestine
The press conference highlighted several actions taken by Birmingham Labour in response to the conflict in Gaza.
These included passing a motion in favour of a ceasefire during the early stages of the war and pressing national politicians to adopt a stronger stance against Israeli military actions in the occupied Palestinian territories.
The party also outlined what it described as a new approach by the Labour Government towards the Israeli Government and the ongoing conflict.
Sanctions against Israeli settlements
A central announcement was the Government’s decision to introduce sanctions against Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, including a ban on trade involving imported goods from the settlements.
The speakers also referred to the Government’s recognition of the situation in the West Bank as ethnic cleansing and its publication of a position that the Israeli occupation is unlawful.
The party said these measures represented a more robust response to developments in the occupied territories and reflected Labour’s stated commitment to international law and Palestinian rights.
Calls for accountability over Gaza
The press conference also addressed allegations of genocide in Gaza, with speakers supporting a full, robust and fair judicial process to examine the allegations.
They argued that accountability and the application of international law were essential to addressing the suffering of civilians and establishing a lasting peace.
The party reiterated its support for a two-state solution, stressing that a sustainable settlement must protect the rights and security of both Palestinians and Israelis.
Labour’s role in government
The speakers maintained that Labour was uniquely positioned to advocate for Palestinian rights while taking practical steps against policies it considered unjust.
They criticised opposition voices that, in their view, sought to exploit the plight of Palestinians for political advantage, arguing that Labour’s actions in government demonstrated a willingness to confront difficult issues and introduce meaningful measures.
The press conference was attended by Councillor Nicky Brennan, Leader of the Labour Group at Birmingham City Council; Councillor Shuranjeet Singh, Deputy Leader; Councillor Shafique Shah, Deputy Lord Mayor; Councillor Marcus Bernasconi, Chair of Birmingham Labour Party; Councillor Rasheda Begum; Councillor Cllr Saddak Miah; Councillor Rashad Mahmood; Councillor Su Brooks; Councillor Randeep Kular; Cllr Narinder Kooner Obe; Councillor Ray Goodwin; Councillor Sarina Younas; Ansar Ali Khan, former Assistant Leader of Birmingham City Council; Mohammed Hanif, and Mohammed Rasib CH chairman Labour Party Alum Rock Ward, among others.
The announcement comes as the conflict in Gaza and the wider question of Palestinian statehood continue to shape political debate in the UK and internationally. Birmingham Labour said it would continue to advocate for Palestinian rights and support measures aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace.
Report by S M Irfan Tahir, Photojournalist / Member, National Union of Journalists (NUJ) Great Britain.
