Palestinians from Britain have expressed their disappointment in the disorderly events that took place in the House of Commons during the vote on the Gaza ceasefire. They view it as a mockery and a manipulation of political agendas, as the speaker broke longstanding parliamentary norms by permitting a discussion on a Labour amendment.
Lindsay Hoyle defied tradition by choosing to vote on both the amendment and the government proposal. However, he has faced criticism for his management of the initial motion from the Scottish National Party, which demanded an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
Tory and SNP Members of Parliament (MPs) criticized him for giving in to Keir Starmer’s demands and allowing the Labour motion to be passed. Later, Hoyle admitted that he had been convinced to allow both amendments due to serious threats to the safety of numerous MPs.
British Palestinians expressed criticism of the events. Mira Hammad, a 32-year-old barrister of British-Palestinian descent, described the unfolding of the situation as “appalling”.
She expressed disgust at the notion that Palestine protesters are being accused and viewed as a danger or threat to MPs.
The lives of Palestinians should not be used as a political tool. They are real people and it is appalling to treat them as pawns in a political game.
“It’s appalling that a discussion concerning the well-being of a community enduring violence and experiencing genocide has shifted to focus on the safety of politicians due to justified protests.”
Hammad stated that the current events in Gaza are not a priority for politicians in parliament.
Unfortunately, the process was not as straightforward as it should have been. According to Kamel Hawwash, a 62-year-old academic who holds British and Palestinian citizenship, those in favor of a ceasefire would have voted yes, while those who support Israel would have voted no. This would have been a true test of the MPs’ values and compassion. However, the situation devolved into a chaotic and farcical state.
I do not support protests outside of Members of Parliament’s homes, but I believe they are acceptable outside of their workplace or in their local offices. I think it is justified for constituents to voice their discontent and disappointment with the lack of action to end the violence in Gaza.
Sara Husseini, age 40 and director of the British Palestinian Committee, stated that the leaders of the two main political parties are focused on protecting Israel from criticism and accountability, even if it means neglecting democracy in the UK and disregarding their legal and moral obligations to the Palestinian people.
She stated that British Palestinians and the general voting public will not overlook this.
Hadil Louz, a 30-year-old PhD student from Gaza currently studying at the University of St Andrews, expressed frustration at the lack of progress in urging parliament to call for a ceasefire. She shared that she has stopped watching the news and is solely focused on ensuring her family’s safety. Despite her efforts to protest in London, Dundee, and St Andrews, she feels that they have been ineffective due to the UK and parliament’s stance on the ceasefire.
I am grateful for the unity of those who take to the streets to demand a halt to conflict. Their dedication to protesting every Saturday and every week is admirable. Unfortunately, I have not received any assistance from the government. However, I have felt tremendous support from the people of the UK.
Source: theguardian.com
