The Labour Party, under the leadership of Keir Starmer, is experiencing a disconnect with Muslim voters due to its stance on Israel’s actions in Gaza. This decline in support has emerged despite Labour’s traditional hold over Muslim communities for many years. The party’s delayed call for a ceasefire has contributed to the growing disillusionment. Efforts are now being made by the party to mend relations with Muslim communities, drawing on the engagement strategies of mayors Sadiq Khan and Andy Burnham. The key challenge is to regain trust ahead of the forthcoming general election through genuine engagement and reevaluation of both domestic and international policy stances, particularly those related to justice and human rights.

Meanwhile, the Green Party is contending with its own controversy after one of their councillors, Mr. Ali, made contentious remarks during an election victory declaration, including shouting “Allahu Akbar!” and emphasizing it as a victory for Gaza. This, alongside prior social media statements and harassment allegations involving a Jewish university chaplain and derogatory comments about a Rabbi, has sparked an investigation within the party. The Green Party’s national co-leader, Carla Denyer, and the Government’s independent antisemitism advisor, Lord John Mann, have both expressed concerns, with Mann suggesting that expulsion could be an outcome for Mr. Ali. This issue has arisen in a broader context where independent pro-Gaza groups saw unexpected electoral success, which was seen as a challenge to Labour’s dominance in some areas. In response, there have been calls within the Labour Party for improved social media conduct and training, illustrating the broader political implications of individual actions and public statements in the current climate.