Labour to Pledge Recognition of Palestinian State in Upcoming Manifesto

[Social Media]

 

Labour leader Keir Starmer is set to unveil a significant policy shift in the party's forthcoming election manifesto, pledging to recognize a Palestinian state. This move, aimed at reassuring the left-wing faction of the party, will highlight Labour's commitment to international peace processes and regional stability. Sources familiar with the draft manifesto indicate that it will state that a Palestinian state should be recognized as part of a peace process and not subject to vetoes by other states in the region. This specific wording is seen as an attempt to address the concerns of party members who were discontented with the leadership's stance against a ceasefire following the October 7 attacks.

 

Despite this new commitment, Labour insists there has been no change in Sir Keir Starmer's position on the recognition of Palestine through an international process, alongside ensuring the safety and security of Israel. The manifesto, which is set to be finalized and signed off by party officials and unions, is expected to emphasize economic stability and national security, maintaining a cautious approach towards new commitments.

 

The manifesto will be built around the six key pledges that Sir Keir has outlined during his campaign, focusing on economic growth, the recruitment of 6,500 additional teachers, tackling NHS waiting lists, and addressing anti-social behavior. Additionally, it will commit to "driving down" migration, though it will not specify a target, and it does not include a pledge to reverse the two-child benefit cap, despite previous criticism from senior Labour figures.

 

In a recent interview with Sky News, Sir Keir Starmer was asked whether a government under his leadership would follow the example of Spain, Ireland, and Norway in recognizing a Palestinian state. He emphasized that such recognition had to occur "at the right time in the [peace] process" and needed international backing and consensus. "That's only going to happen if we work with our partners on it," he said. Israel has reacted angrily to the decisions by several European governments, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu calling these moves a "reward for terrorism."

 

Labour views its stance as distinct from these governments' actions. A party spokesman clarified, "Our position of recognizing a Palestinian state as part of an international process was agreed at the National Policy Forum last July." This approach contrasts with the immediate and unconditional recognition of Palestine promised in Jeremy Corbyn's 2017 and 2019 manifestos. The draft manifesto's wording echoes that of the foreign secretary, Lord Cameron, who stated in January that the Palestinian people would need to see "irreversible progress" towards a two-state solution, Hamas must leave Gaza for two-state solution, Lord Cameron says.

 

The manifesto also addresses workers' rights, a topic that has been a source of contention with union leaders for months. It includes commitments to banning "exploitative" zero-hour contracts and the practice of fire and rehire. This alignment with workers' rights is intended to solidify Labour's support among its traditional base while also addressing contemporary labor issues.

 

The final version of the manifesto will be signed off after several hours of discussion at a "Clause Five" meeting and will be officially unveiled to the public next Thursday. This key moment in the election campaign will reflect Labour's vision for the future, balancing domestic priorities with international commitments.

 

Labour's manifesto marks a significant moment in the party's approach to both national and international issues. By pledging to recognize a Palestinian state as part of a peace process, Labour aims to demonstrate its commitment to international justice and regional stability. This pledge is designed to resonate with the party's left-wing members, who have been critical of the leadership's previous stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Sir Keir Starmer's strategic move also reflects a broader vision of promoting peace through international cooperation and consensus. By emphasizing the need for recognition to occur at the right time and with international backing, Labour underscores its commitment to a balanced and pragmatic approach to foreign policy.

 

The manifesto's cautious stance on new commitments highlights Labour's focus on economic stability and national security, ensuring that the party presents a responsible and credible alternative to the current government. The inclusion of key pledges on economic growth, education, healthcare, and anti-social behavior demonstrates Labour's dedication to addressing the pressing issues facing the UK.

 

Credit: Sky News 2024-06-08

 

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[NanLaew]

As long as this isn't construed as a recognition of the current, totally unacceptable regimes in place in Gaza and the West Bank, I consider this pledge to be acceptable.

[newbee2022]

Good move. ROI did it already. I hope many will follow.🙏

[ThaiFelix]

So turns the wheel!

[rickudon]

First firm commitment. Pity 4 other European countries have already beaten you to it.

[Doctor Tom]

There is no Palestinian 'State' to recognise. 

[Doctor Tom]

On 6/8/2024 at 8:50 AM, newbee2022 said:

Good move. ROI did it already. I hope many will follow.🙏

A foolish move,  to recognise a 'State' where none exists

[Doctor Tom]

On 6/8/2024 at 4:25 AM, NanLaew said:

As long as this isn't construed as a recognition of the current, totally unacceptable regimes in place in Gaza and the West Bank,

What else could it possibly be? 

[Chomper Higgot]

2 minutes ago, Doctor Tom said:

What else could it possibly be? 

A recognition of a Palestinian State.

[newbee2022]

1 minute ago, Doctor Tom said:

A foolish move,  to recognise a 'State' where none exists

Sorry, that you don't understand the reason why Ireland and others did it. Really sorry.

It's about to define a state. Israel is forced to draw back. UN will determine where the borders are. 

[Doctor Tom]

The Palestinian's are a rag bag of isolated peoples, shunned and ignored by the majority of Arab States, fueled by terrorist activity, bound by nothing and existing in two separate enclaves, or living on other countries,  that reject each other.  Where is the Nation State here?  It does not exist. 

[newbee2022]

5 minutes ago, Doctor Tom said:

There is no Palestinian 'State' to recognise. 

Sometimes it's better to think twice before posting.🙏

[newbee2022]

1 minute ago, Doctor Tom said:

The Palestinian's are a rag bag of isolated peoples, shunned and ignored by the majority of Aran States, fueled by terrorist activity, bound by nothing and existing in two separate enclaves, or living on other countries,  that reject each other.  Where is the Nation State here?  It does not exist. 

That's too much joking I'd say🥴

[transam]

The lefty's being sure to tick all the boxes to get in..........😋

But, if they do.......

 

 

[Stocky]

They should combine that with a ban on arms sales to Israel.

[transam]

5 minutes ago, Stocky said:

They should combine that with a ban on arms sales to Israel.

Iran would like that..........😂

[Nick Carter icp]

On 6/8/2024 at 2:50 AM, newbee2022 said:

Good move. ROI did it already. I hope many will follow.🙏

 

   Wil the Irish be happy to accept up to 2 million Palestinian refugees ?

Spain is legally required to grant them Asylum in Spain because of the genocide , what is Irelands legal position  on that situation ?

[TroubleandGrumpy]

The Tory's/Independents just won the election.