Arabs in UK Demand Accountability for MPs Who Ignored Gaza Ceasefire Calls

A seminar held by Al-Arab in UK (AUK) Platform on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at P21 Gallery in central London, discussed the role of Arabs in UK in the upcoming elections and their expectations from the political parties. The speakers unanimously called for holding accountable the MPs who did not vote for a ceasefire in Gaza, where Israeli attacks have killed hundreds of civilians.

Arabs in UK urge MPs to support Gaza ceasefire

Sabah Al-Mukhtar, the president of the Arab Lawyers Association, gave a historical overview of the British political parties and their dynamics, and criticized the parliamentary majority that claims to uphold principles and values, but votes against a ceasefire in Gaza.

He also pointed out the farce that occurred when the Speaker of Parliament apologized for presenting the Labour Party’s proposal for a ceasefire, which did not condemn Israel, contrary to the protocol.

He said that this incident showed the influence of the Palestinian cause on the British Parliament, as some MPs from the Conservative and Scottish National parties withdrew in protest.

The role of Arab and Muslim voters in British elections

Ihab Omar, a researcher, presented statistics that showed that the Arabs, along with the Muslim community, can have a significant impact on the elections, as they constitute a large percentage of the population in some electoral districts, such as Bradford and central Birmingham.

He added that London and Manchester are the two cities where the Arab presence is most prominent.

Alaa Bayoumi, a writer and journalist, said that the Palestinian Cause is not about Muslims or Arabs, it’s about justice for humans, and that this is how it should be presented to the world.

He expressed his optimism that the coming Arab generations will be more involved in the political process, as they are more interested in Arab issues, especially the Palestinian cause, due to their exposure to social media, which revealed the truth to them and gave them a goal and a cause to defend.

Adnan Hmidan, the president of the Arab Platform in Britain, invited those who wish to join an Arab coordinating team that works in a campaign to make the Arab voice more influential in the elections, and pledged to support the four Arab candidates who are running for Parliament: Kamel Hawash, Lian Muhammad, Helmi Al-Harashah and Mona Adam.

Reem Khbazi, the media director of the seminar, started the seminar by praying for mercy for the martyrs in Gaza and healing for the wounded, and stressed the importance of mobilization, pressure, demonstration and interaction for the sake of Gaza.

She concluded by thanking the speakers and the audience for their participation.