Tameside politicians urged to take stand on Israel

POLITICIANS in Tameside – at local and national level – are coming under increasing scrutiny over their stance on Israel.

Just as graffiti was daubed along the side of a Stalybridge house.

As the conflict in that part of the world appears to escalate, the Tameside Palestinian Solidarity Movement (TPSM) has asked Labour councillors over their thoughts of party leader Sir Keir Starmer’s approach to the nation, especially over arms.

In the House of Commons, the Prime Minister said: “I don’t agree with a complete ban on arms sales.

“That would include a ban on arms being used for defensive purposes.

“Looking at the attack only a few days ago by Iran, I think the House will understand my position on this and the position of many across the House.”

Now the TPSM has asked: “As local council representatives, do you believe that your party leader’s unconditional support for Israel, an apartheid regime responsible for an illegal occupation and mass ethnic cleansing, aligns with Labour’s values of justice and equality?

“And in the light of recent atrocities committed by Israel, what do you intend to do to put pressure on your political leaders to impose sanctions and halt all arms sales to a country committing plausible genocide?

“Tameside residents can bear witness to years of austerity while billions are spent on arms. We care for humanity and expect our leaders – locally and nationally – to do so too.”

Graffiti was sprayed along the side of one property on Huddersfield Road in Millbrook, branding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu – whose name was misspelled – a ‘war criminal.’

A heart with the number seven was also daubed on the wall, along with the word ‘Zionist.’

That was soon removed but the TPSM has called on Stalybridge and Hyde MP – and business secretary – Jonathan Reynolds to suspend all arms sales to Israel.

The group added: “He should suspend ALL trade with them, as the UK has done with Putin’s Russia following their invasion of Ukraine.
“Why are we even doing any trade with Israel?

“It would not hurt our economy to boycott this rogue nation as exports to Israel represent less than 0.5 per cent of UK GDP – trade with Russia was more than double that amount and the UK has taken the hit for Ukraine.

“Why not for Palestinians? Do they not count?

“We urge Jonathan Reynolds and Keir Starmer to cease any trade talks with Israel.”