Pro-Palestinian Demonstrators Converge on Scottish Labour Conference Amid Gaza Conflict

Activists call for an end to UK arms sales to Israel as tensions escalate over the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Hundreds of pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered outside the Scottish Labour conference on Saturday in Glasgow, criticizing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for his perceived support of Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Activists, some donning black veils and accompanied by prams displaying images of children reportedly killed in the conflict, chanted slogans such as "From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free" and accused Starmer of complicity in what they termed a genocide.

The protests are a response to the war that erupted following a Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 individuals, primarily civilians, and the capture of approximately 250 hostages.

In contrast, the Hamas-run health ministry has reported a Palestinian death toll of about 37,000, with some studies suggesting it may be at least double that figure.

Angela McCormick, an anti-war campaigner and trade unionist, expressed a desire for the UK government to halt all arms sales to Israel, alleging that politicians in Westminster are complicit in the violence.

She criticized the government's inaction regarding the crisis and called for accountability among lawmakers.

Her statements echoed sentiments shared by other activists at the event.

Ellie Gomersall, a Scottish Green Party activist, articulated concerns regarding the ongoing threat to Palestinians despite a current ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

She emphasized the need for the UK government to condemn Israeli actions and support calls for justice, referencing an arrest warrant issued for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by the International Criminal Court.

On the same day, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar had previously advocated for a ceasefire and promoted a two-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians.

The protests occurred alongside a demonstration by members of the Unite union, who voiced objections to plans by Petroineos to close the Grangemouth oil refinery, underscoring the atmosphere of dissent surrounding the conference.

In response to the gathering, a spokesperson for Police Scotland stated that officers were present and noted the implementation of a proportionate policing plan to manage the protests effectively.

The demonstrations are indicative of the rising tensions and divided public opinion regarding the UK government’s role in international conflicts.