Burnham must establish an inquiry into Britain’s role in the Gaza genocide

What Happened

In June 2025, former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn introduced a bill in the UK Parliament seeking an independent public inquiry into British military, economic, and political cooperation with Israel regarding the conflict in Gaza since October 2023. The Keir Starmer government blocked the bill's passage, asserting that such an inquiry was unnecessary. Consequently, Corbyn organized a public tribunal held on September 4-5, 2025, at Church House, Westminster, which heard 29 testimonies from witnesses, journalists, and legal experts. In March 2026, Corbyn submitted the tribunal's findings to the International Criminal Court, alleging British complicity in war crimes through the supply of weapons, F-35 components, and the use of Royal Air Force surveillance flights and airbases.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The debate highlights ongoing domestic political pressure in the UK regarding the legal and ethical implications of arms exports and logistical support provided to Israel during the Gaza conflict. The tribunal's findings and the subsequent submission to the ICC represent an attempt to establish legal accountability for state actors beyond the immediate combatants.

Watch For

Monitor future parliamentary sessions for potential reintroduction of inquiry bills under the new administration and any formal responses or procedural updates from the ICC regarding the submitted tribunal findings.