Labour Party’s Battle with Antisemitism: Perspectives from Top Political Voices

Recent discussions around the Labour Party‘s battle with antisemitism has unveiled diverse perspectives from key political figures.

Dame Louise Ellman, a former Labour MP for Liverpool Riverside, shared her experience of facing antisemitism within the party under Jeremy Corbyn‘s leadership.

Ellman highlighted how the membership of her local party underwent a drastic shift under Corbyn, leading to incidents of antisemitic rhetoric and actions.

She recounted facing allegations of dual loyalties and being targeted for her support for Israel.

Following Ellman’s resignation, she later rejoined the party under the leadership of Keir Starmer, who pledged to address antisemitism within Labour.

Melanie Phillips, a noted columnist and social commentator, expressed cautious optimism regarding the party’s progress under Starmer.

While acknowledging improvements, Phillips pointed out lingering issues within Labour, such as the reinstatement of controversial figures like Kate Osamor.

Josh Simons, a director at Labour Together, reflected on his experience working under Corbyn and praised Starmer’s strategic approach in combating antisemitism.

Simons highlighted Starmer’s role in reshaping Labour’s stance on Israel and Gaza, positioning the party in alignment with mainstream views.

Ian Austin, a former Labour MP and current life peer in the Lords, commended the shift within Labour since Corbyn’s tenure, noting the party’s renewed focus on key issues beyond antisemitism.

Mike Katz, the national chair of the Jewish Labour Movement, emphasized the significant steps taken under Starmer’s leadership to address antisemitism and rebuild trust within the Jewish community.

Katz pointed to the EHCR’s intervention and Labour’s evolving position on Gaza as indicators of a positive transformation within the party.