Statement on the conflict in the Middle East from the Birmingham Labour Group

Our statement as the Labour group of Councillors in Birmingham in relation to the unfolding events in Israel and Gaza.
We must not allow the tragic events in Israel and Gaza to divide our communities. We must not conflate Hamas with the Palestinian people. The Israeli government’s response to the attack by Hamas – cutting off food, electricity and fuel will lead to a humanitarian catastrophe. There must be humanitarian access to Gaza, and supplies of food, water, electricity and medicines must continue. International law needs to be adhered to at all times and any violations must be addressed.