The PM is likely to face pressure to condemn Donald Trump’s outrageous suggestion to “take over” Gaza and relocate Palestinians. Should the Labour leader distance the UK from such wild comments, or let them slide?
Should Keir Starmer condemn Donald Trump’s comments about taking over Gaza?
It seems likely the PM will face some tough questions at PMQs today about Trump’s controversial suggestion to permanently relocate the territory’s war-ravaged citizens. In a bizarre set of remarks overnight, the US President proposed moving Palestinians from the “demolition site” to neighbouring countries, causing much outrage.
Already this morning, a UK minister has rejected Trump’s wild idea of turning Gaza into the “Riviera of the Middle East.” But with the situation heating up, Starmer could face increasing pressure to speak out and distance the UK from such an outlandish suggestion.
Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey warned that “Trump’s ramblings on Gaza risk having the effect of a bull in a china shop” when we need a fragile truce to hold. He argues that the UK must make it clear that these proposals are unacceptable and reaffirm our support for international law and a two-state solution based on 1967 borders.
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Steve Reed, the UK’s Environment Secretary, said: “The UK government’s view is that Palestinian civilians after what they’ve been through these last 14 months must be able to return to their homes and rebuild their lives. And they will need a lot of international support to do that.”
He told the BBC : “We all want there to be a long-lasting peace. That can only be built on the stability of a two state solution, with a secure Israel at peace within their borders living alongside a free and independent Palestinian state. That is what the UK government wants to continue working towards.”
But Mr Reed also said it would be “inappropriate to provide a running commentary” of everything the US President or other world leaders say.
And he even praised Mr Trump for the current ceasefire in the region, telling Sky News: “I think we should give Donald Trump credit for the role that he played in securing this ceasefire in the first place.”
What do you think – should Keir Starmer take a stand and condemn Trump’s comments, or is this just more of the usual from the erratic US president? Take our poll above and expand on your feelings in the comments.
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