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Andy Burnham apologises, pushes Gaza ceasefire, sanctions.

7/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Andy Burnham apologised for Labour's response to Israel's Gaza offensive, saying the party got it wrong.
He criticised the UK for being too slow to call for a ceasefire, urging sanctions on illegal settlements.
Burnham cited Labour's 2025 recognition of a Palestinian state, sanctions on Israeli ministers and violent settlers, and a halt to arms licences.
Labour MPs Wes Streeting and Rupa Huq called the statement welcome and timely.

History

Historical Context

In 1975 the UN General Assembly, supported by the Arab League and many African states, adopted Resolution 3379 declaring Zionism a form of racism, passing with 72 votes in favour, 35 against and 32 abstentions. The resolution was revoked on 16 December 1991 by Resolution 46/86. Labour leaders such as Andy Burnham now call for sanctions on Israeli settlements, echoing the 1975 position and illustrating party’s shifting policy legacy.

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Story summary

Andy Burnham apologised for Labour's response to Israel's Gaza offensive, saying the party got it wrong.
He criticised the UK for being too slow to call for a ceasefire, urging sanctions on illegal settlements.
Burnham cited Labour's 2025 recognition of a Palestinian state, sanctions on Israeli ministers and violent settlers, and a halt to arms licences.
Labour MPs Wes Streeting and Rupa Huq called the statement welcome and timely.

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