Rochdale, United Kingdom – The Labour Party has withdrawn its support for a candidate in the upcoming by-election in Rochdale after controversial remarks about Israel and Gaza. The party’s decision comes amid a growing scandal involving allegations of antisemitism.

Azhar Ali, the Labour candidate at the center of the controversy, is facing backlash for comments suggesting that Israel allowed an attack by Hamas to happen. This has sparked outrage and led to the party distancing itself from Ali. The move reflects the party’s commitment to addressing allegations of antisemitism within its ranks and taking a strong stance against discriminatory rhetoric.

The decision to withdraw support for Ali comes as the Labour Party faces increasing scrutiny over its handling of allegations of antisemitism and the broader issue of its stance on Israel and Palestine. The party has been grappling with internal divisions and controversies over these issues, and the decision to disavow Ali is seen as a way to reaffirm its commitment to combating antisemitism and upholding inclusive and respectful discourse.

This development in the Rochdale by-election underscores the challenges facing the Labour Party as it navigates the complexities of addressing sensitive geopolitical issues while maintaining a united front within its ranks. The party’s response to the controversy surrounding Ali will likely influence its broader efforts to rebuild trust and address internal divisions. The decision to withdraw support for Ali reflects the party’s recognition of the need to uphold its values and principles in the face of contentious issues.