Andy Burnham, the expected next prime minister, has apologised for Labour’s initial response to Israel’s military actions in Gaza and indicated that under his leadership the party will adopt a more assertive stance on the conflict. In a video posted on social media and in a recent interview, Burnham conceded that the party had been too slow to call for a ceasefire and said the government needed to “do better” in addressing the crisis.

Burnham criticised Labour’s earlier approach, acknowledging that many felt the party “didn’t get it right” at the outset of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. He expressed regret over the perceived shortcomings and promised a tougher policy that includes increased pressure on the Israeli government. This could involve expanding sanctions against individuals and entities involved in settler violence and measures to restrict trade linked to Israeli settlements considered illegal under international law. Ministers in the Foreign Office are reportedly exploring ways to prevent goods and services from these settlements entering the UK, seeking to avoid disruptions to legitimate trade with Israel.

While Burnham emphasised the need for stronger criticism of events in Gaza and greater efforts to halt the violence, he stopped short of describing the situation as genocide. He acknowledged "increasing evidence" suggesting that war crimes may have been committed, stressing that determining accountability is ultimately the role of international courts rather than politicians. At the same time, he condemned the attacks by Hamas on October 7, 2023, as well as subsequent antisemitic incidents in the UK, underscoring the importance of combating antisemitism nationwide.

Burnham’s shift in policy signals a departure from the approach of the current Labour leadership under Sir Keir Starmer, who has maintained that Israel has a right to self-defence—a position that drew criticism from some party backbenchers, particularly following Starmer’s comments early in the conflict affirming Israel’s right to cut off power and water supplies to Gaza. Starmer’s stance led to a backlash among Muslim voters and others concerned about the party’s position on the Israel-Palestine conflict, contributing to Labour losing support in certain communities.

The new Labour leader’s move comes amid a broader realignment within the party. Burnham has also stated he will end the use of the party whip to limit internal debate, a practice that had led to several suspensions in recent years over policy disagreements. The announcement has drawn support from some left-wing Labour MPs, including Rachael Maskell, who praised Burnham’s recognition of the party’s past failings and called for accountability for the ongoing destruction and trauma in Gaza.

Burnham’s leadership is set to begin on July 20, following a nomination process in which he emerged as the sole candidate, securing overwhelming backing from his parliamentary colleagues. Observers suggest his foreign policy adjustments, particularly on the Middle East, could be accompanied by shifts in the party’s defence and economic policies as he seeks to rebuild Labour’s electoral base and address criticisms that contributed to previous polling lows.