Sunday 13 October 2024

UK: Green Party to vote on whether to declare a genocide in Gaza

UK: Green Party to vote on whether to declare a genocide in Gaza

Palestine Genocide | 1 month ago

By Adam Karim

The Green Party of England and Wales will vote on declaring Israel's actions in Gaza a genocide during its annual conference in Manchester.

The Green Party's conference, which began on Friday, comes in the wake of its significant electoral success in July, where it increased its parliamentary representation from one to four seats. Gaza was a critical issue in the party's campaign, with many voters expressing their concerns about the ongoing situation. Aasiya Bora from the Muslim Greens emphasized the need for the party to adopt a more robust stance on the genocide occurring in Gaza.

Chris Williams, who led the recent election campaign, noted that a significant portion of Green voters cited Gaza as a primary reason for their support. The party aims to represent the disillusionment felt by people of color toward other political parties' handling of the Gaza genocide. Green deputy leader Zack Polanski highlighted the potential consequences for the Labour Party due to its support for the Israeli apartheid regime.

Co-leader Carla Denyer, although absent due to illness, previously collaborated with independent pro-Palestinian MPs to advocate for the recognition of Palestine. Polanski indicated the Green Party's willingness to work with others on a case-by-case basis while maintaining its core values. The conference attracted hundreds, with speeches emphasizing the importance of intertwining environmental issues with justice for Palestine.

Adrian Ramsay criticized the Labour government's inadequate response to the genocide, calling their partial suspension of arms sales to Israel 'half-hearted.' He also condemned the far-right riots in Britain, framing them as politically motivated violence rooted in racism and Islamophobia. Activists praised the Green Party for its stance on Gaza, positioning it as a more reliable ally for Palestinians compared to other political parties.

The Green Party's call for a ceasefire and support for the boycott, divestment, and sanctions movement reflects a growing appeal among traditional Labour voters. The well-attended fringe session by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign underscored the party's commitment to Palestinian rights, with members expressing pride in the Green Party's advocacy, which has positioned it as the closest ally of Palestinians in British politics.