Labour Frontbencher Imran Hussain Resigns Over Party’s Stance On Gaza

David GilmourNov 8th, 2023, 5:22 am

Imran Hussain in parliament. (Screengrab via Youtube)

Labour frontbencher Imran Hussain stepped down from Sir Keir Starmer’s shadow cabinet due to disagreements over the Labour Party’s stance on Gaza.

As the shadow minister for the New Deal for Working People, Hussain felt unable to “strongly advocate for a ceasefire” in Gaza from his position. He made the announcement late Tuesday, publishing a letter on X.

I want to be able to strongly advocate for a ceasefire, as called for by the UN General Secretary. In order to be fully free to do so, I have tonight stepped down from Labour's Frontbench.

My letter below: pic.twitter.com/u47KMVNhxt

— Imran Hussain MP (@Imran_HussainMP) November 7, 2023

Despite backing Labour’s general agenda, he opposes Starmer’s rejection of a ceasefire, which the Labour leader believes would benefit Hamas. Instead, Starmer promotes a “humanitarian pause” to facilitate aid, a viewpoint supported by other prominent Labour politicians.

Hussain, emphasising his stance, said he had consistently condemned Hamas’s actions and supported every country’s right to self-defence. However, he underlined that this right does not extend to violating international law or committing war crimes.

Describing Gaza’s situation as a “humanitarian catastrophe,” Hussain believes a ceasefire is crucial for aiding civilians and resolving the hostage situation.

His resignation came after a reflection on an LBC interview with Starmer regarding Israel’s measures in Gaza, which, despite a later clarification, still prompted Hussain to urge the party to demand a ceasefire.