Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, alongside the Independent Alliance of MPs, has issued two letters challenging Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Attorney-General Lord Hermer over their stance on Israel’s actions in Gaza. The letters respond to Starmer’s recent comments in Prime Minister’s Questions, where he denied that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza.
MPs Challenge Starmer’s Denial
In their letter to Starmer, the MPs criticise his “flippant denial of genocide”, arguing it dismisses the suffering of Palestinians and ignores international law. They remind the Prime Minister that the legal definition of genocide focuses on intent rather than the number of victims, citing Article 2 of the Genocide Convention.
The MPs suggest that Starmer’s denial may stem from an awareness that acknowledging the situation would implicate the UK government in ongoing complicity in crimes against humanity. The letter asks whether Starmer has sought or received any legal advice from the Attorney-General about the definition of genocide and its relevance to the Gaza situation. They also demand transparency regarding any advice given and when it will be made public.
Questioning the Attorney-General’s Role
The MPs also questioned Attorney-General Lord Hermer’s role in providing legal advice to the Prime Minister. In their letter to Hermer, they asked whether the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary had contradicted UN reports or pre-empted the decisions of international courts, particularly the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which is investigating Israel for genocide.
Growing International Pressure
The MPs’ intervention comes as various international bodies, including the United Nations, have labelled Israel’s actions in Gaza as genocide. A UN Special Committee recently concluded that Israel’s policies fit the characteristics of genocide, specifically targeting Palestinians and using starvation as a weapon of war. The ICJ has also warned that Palestinians face “irreparable prejudice” to their rights, including protection from genocide.
Calls for Transparency and Accountability
The MPs, part of the Independent Alliance, are calling for transparency regarding the legal advice received by the UK government and for an end to arms sales to Israel. The challenge comes alongside Pope Francis’s call for an investigation into the genocide claims, adding to international pressure for accountability over Israel’s actions. The ongoing military campaign has resulted in the deaths of 44,000 Palestinians, most of whom are women and children.
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