Labour Friends of Israel Event Draws Large Crowd with Rayner and Reeves Taking the Lead
The Labour Party conference in Liverpool saw a significant turnout at a fringe event hosted by Labour Friends of Israel (LFI), with Chancellor Rachel Reeves and deputy prime minister Angela Rayner leading the charge. The event aimed to show solidarity with Israel and raise awareness about the remaining 101 hostages held by Hamas. Despite facing criticism from pro-Gaza supporters, the presence of five cabinet ministers at the event sent a powerful message of support for Israel within the party.
Symbolic Gesture Amidst Criticism
The presence of senior ministers at the LFI event was seen as a symbolic gesture of solidarity with Israel, especially in the face of criticism from pro-Gaza supporters within the Labour Party. The ongoing crisis in the region has put pressure on Keir Starmer’s government to take a more anti-Israel stance, leading to tensions within the party. The refusal to back down over support for Israel has even resulted in the loss of MPs, including frontbencher Jon Ashworth, at the election.
Israeli Ambassador’s Account
Israeli ambassador Tzipura Hotovely shared a harrowing account of her experience during the recent attacks by Hamas. She described how she and her family spent hours hiding in a shelter on the day of the attacks, highlighting the fear and uncertainty faced by Israeli civilians. Hotovely emphasized the importance of supporting Israel’s right to self-defense in the face of ongoing threats from groups like Hezbollah and Hamas.
Calls for Immediate Ceasefire and Hostage Release
Angela Rayner, standing in for Keir Starmer at the event, called for an immediate ceasefire from all sides and urged for the immediate release of the hostages held by Hamas. Her strong stance on the need for peace and resolution to the ongoing crisis was met with applause from the audience. The event became a platform for key figures within the Labour Party to show their support for Israel and push for diplomatic solutions to the conflict.
Role of Labour Friends of Israel
The event also celebrated the role of Labour Friends of Israel in shaping the party’s stance on antisemitism and Israel under Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership. Rachel Reeves, who served as vice chair of LFI for 14 years, expressed gratitude to the supporters for their efforts in changing the party’s direction. Rooting out antisemitism and promoting a strong stance on Israel’s security have become non-negotiable priorities for the party under Keir Starmer’s leadership.
Push for Action Against Iran
Newly elected LFI chair Jon Pearce highlighted the need for stronger action against Iran, citing the threat posed by terror groups supported by the Iranian regime. He called for a ban on Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and emphasized the importance of enhancing relations with Israel as a key ally in the region. The event underscored the shared values of freedom, peace, and democracy that unite Britain and Israel in the face of common threats.
Criticism of Netanyahu and Call for Peace
While the event focused on showing support for Israel and raising awareness about the hostages held by Hamas, there were also criticisms directed at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for failing to secure a hostage deal and lasting peace in the region. The speakers highlighted the need for diplomatic solutions and peaceful resolutions to the conflict, urging all parties involved to prioritize the safety and well-being of civilians caught in the crossfire.
Emotional Testimonies and Calls for Action
The event featured emotional testimonies from relatives of hostages still held by Hamas, shedding light on the human cost of the ongoing crisis. Holocaust survivor Mala Tribich and former Labour MPs Louise Ellman and Luciana Berger also shared their perspectives on the importance of standing in solidarity with Israel. The powerful speeches and calls for action underscored the urgency of finding peaceful solutions to the conflict and bringing the hostages home safely.
In Conclusion
The Labour Friends of Israel event at the Labour Party conference drew a large crowd and showcased the party’s support for Israel amidst ongoing tensions in the region. With key figures like Rachel Reeves and Angela Rayner taking the lead, the event sent a strong message of solidarity and commitment to finding diplomatic solutions to the crisis. As the conflict continues to unfold, the voices of support and calls for peace from within the party reflect a growing awareness of the importance of standing up for Israel’s right to self-defense and advocating for the safe return of the hostages.
