Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is set to meet with Muslim MPs in an attempt to address tensions within the party over his response to the conflict between Israel and Hamas, according to sources. Starmer has faced criticism for his comments suggesting that Israel's decision to cut off water and power to Gaza was proportionate and justified, resulting in the resignation of 23 Labour councillors. The leader faced further backlash after a visit to a mosque in South Wales, with congregants accusing him of misrepresenting their views and causing disrepute to the Muslim community. Some party sources have described a "pattern of behaviour" by the leadership that has been insensitive to Muslims, leading to tears among MPs and staff. However, a Labour Party spokesperson stated that MPs and councillors have had opportunities to discuss the situation with Starmer and other party members, and reiterated their calls for humanitarian aid to be restored to Gaza. The meeting with Muslim MPs, which will also be attended by deputy leader Angela Rayner, is scheduled to take place today.

The controversy surrounding Starmer's response to the Israel-Hamas conflict began after a terror attack by Hamas on October 7th. In an interview with LBC's Nick Ferrari, Starmer expressed support for Israel and its right to self-defense. However, when asked about the appropriateness of cutting off water and power to Gaza, Starmer replied that Israel had the right to defend itself and that responsibility for the situation lay with Hamas. These comments sparked anger among Labour members, resulting in Starmer clarifying that he did not believe Israel had the right to withhold humanitarian aid. He emphasized the need for urgent action to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Following his attempt to clarify his position, Starmer visited a mosque in South Wales and posted on social media about the visit. However, the mosque's congregants expressed anger and stated that Starmer had misrepresented their views and the purpose of the visit. The mosque later issued a statement apologizing for the confusion caused and acknowledged the anger felt by many in the Muslim community. They called for the end of the occupation of Palestine and stressed the importance of upholding international law.

Critics within the Labour Party questioned Starmer's decision to mention hostages in his mosque visit, stating that it was irrelevant to the situation. Some MPs called for an apology for his initial comments on LBC, while also advocating for a ceasefire or humanitarian pause. Several Labour MPs, as well as the SNP and Liberal Democrats, have called for a ceasefire, in line with the United Nations and other countries.

The controversy surrounding Starmer's response to the Israel-Hamas conflict has reignited tensions within the Labour Party over its stance on Gaza. Sources have accused the leadership of insensitivity towards the Muslim community, causing distress among MPs and staff. To address the ongoing situation, Starmer and Rayner are set to meet with Muslim MPs tomorrow. The Labour Party has not yet called for a ceasefire, despite widespread international calls to do so.