Labour leader Keir Starmer
Responding to today’s statement from the prime minister on the UK’s response to attacks by the Houthis on international shopping, Labour leader Keir Starmer has today called for stronger action against the Iranian regime – the Houthis’ most significant backer – and also made clear Labour’s view that “these attacks do absolutely nothing for the Palestinian people”.
Starmer said: “The international community cannot allow itself to be divided, which is exactly what the Houthi backers in Tehran would love to see. On that note, can the Prime Minister update the House on whether his Government have given further consideration to the proscription of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps? We need every tool at our disposal to disrupt IRGC activities, and we must show Iran that it cannot pursue its ends by destabilising the entire region.”
He went on to make clear Labour’s view that: “Like the Prime Minister, I totally reject the Houthi claims that attacking ships from around the world is somehow linked to the conflict in Gaza. These attacks do absolutely nothing for the Palestinian people. What is needed in Gaza is a humanitarian truce now, a sustainable ceasefire to stop the killing of innocent civilians, space for the return of all hostages, urgent humanitarian relief and a decisive step towards a two-state solution.”
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