London, April 29, 2025 — A coalition of prominent British Muslim leaders have called upon Labour Party Leader Sir Keir Starmer to formally recognise Palestine and take immediate steps towards demanding a ceasefire in Gaza, where Israeli military operations have killed and displaced thousands.
Over one hundred community leaders, imams, academics and local councillors signed an open letter delivered to Starmer’s office on Tuesday that strongly urged him to take a moral stand against “the ongoing injustice and suffering in Palestine.” Specifically, signatories voiced deep frustration over Labour’s apparent silence or neutrality regarding humanitarian crises such as those unfolding in Gaza Strip besieged areas.
“Silence in the face of injustice is complicity,” stated the letter. The Labour Party should act to uphold international law, human rights and principles of justice by recognising Palestine and demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
The appeal is part of mounting pressure for UK government and opposition parties to take stronger stances on the Israel-Gaza conflict, now entering its sixth month. According to recent United Nations figures, more than 32,000 Palestinians — many women and children — have been killed since it escalated in late 2024 with Hamas incursion into southern Israel.
Sir Keir Starmer, widely expected to become Prime Minister following the next general election, has come under scrutiny from various segments of British Muslim community for initially resisting calls for ceasefires. Although Labour has expressed support for an “sustainable humanitarian truce”, critics contend their position lacks urgency and moral clarity.
Mohammed Mahmood, a community leader and signatory in Birmingham, warned the Labour Party against alienating its base unless it pledged justice to Palestinians. “We’re not asking for special treatment; rather, we seek accountability, human rights, and peace from them as is extended elsewhere,” Mahmood explained.
The Muslim Council of Britain issued a statement supporting this call and encouraging all political parties to reflect the diverse electorate while upholding international law values.
Labor spokespersons responded, noting the deep concerns raised by communities throughout the UK and urged international efforts to put an end to violence and secure lasting peace through two-state solutions.
However, activists insist that symbolic gestures and delayed responses are no longer sufficient. According to London-based scholar Dr. Saima Khan, Palestine recognition should not only be seen as political but as moral imperative.