Labour MPs Support Corbyn’s Call for Inquiry into UK’s Role in Gaza Conflict

A group of Labour backbenchers has rallied behind former leader Jeremy Corbyn in a campaign advocating for an inquiry into the UK’s involvement in the ongoing war in Gaza.

Eight Labour MPs have joined Corbyn in calling for a Chilcot-style investigation, similar to the one that scrutinized Britain’s participation in the 2003 Iraq war, to assess the UK government’s role in the current genocide. Corbyn, who now serves as an independent MP, expressed that history is “repeating itself” and emphasized that Britain has played a “highly influential role” in supporting Israel’s military actions.

In a parliamentary motion supported by prominent figures, Corbyn demanded a “comprehensive inquiry with the legal power to establish the truth.” Despite only around 35 members of the Commons and the Lords signing the motion, which makes its passage unlikely, it reflects the ongoing frustration among some Labour backbenchers regarding what they see as an inadequate response to’s crimes.

While some Labour MPs have called for a complete arms embargo against Israel—a measure previously dismissed by Lammy—more than 40 MPs have signed a letter urging the Foreign Secretary to investigate allegations that the UK has continued exporting military equipment to Israel, despite having suspended certain arms export licenses.

A spokesperson from the Foreign Office clarified that licenses related to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) that could be used to commit violations of international humanitarian law in Gaza had been suspended. They noted that “the vast majority” of remaining licenses for Israel pertain to “civilian purposes or re-export,” apart from the F-35 fighter jet program, which is considered strategically important for NATO and international peace and security.

As Israeli forces adopt new military tactics involving extensive airstrikes amid food and aid shortages, goodwill from European allies has diminished. Corbyn emphasized the necessity of an inquiry to determine “exactly what decisions have been taken, how these decisions have been made, and what consequences they have had,” adding that many believe the government has made choices implicating officials in serious breaches of international law.