Is Labour really in trouble over Keir Starmer’s stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict?

The Labour leader is facing dissent over his failure to publicly back the United Nations’ call for a ceasefire in Gaza. Sean O’Grady asks if Starmer’s intransigence could threaten party unity and electoral potency... or boost his image as a leader who stands firm

Thus far, through some intricate use of language, Starmer has contained the dissent (Getty)

The resignations of multiple councillors and one shadow minister of state from the Labour Party over its policy towards Palestine has highlighted one of the most difficult challenges Keir Starmer faces as he approaches the election. Some tough words in support of Israel at the start of the conflict caused considerable disquiet, and his continued refusal to back a ceasefire is generating more of the same.

Thus far, the split has been relatively small and manageable, and through some intricate use of language, Starmer has contained the dissent. The controversy over the march organised by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign has also exacerbated tensions. The question is whether – and if so, how – the Labour leader can weather the storm.

What’s the problem?