In the recent United Kingdom general elections, five independent pro-Palestine candidates, including former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn, secured victories. Corbyn, who has represented London’s Islington North constituency for over 40 years, defeated Labour’s Praful Nargund with a significant margin. The other successful independent candidates are Shockat Adam in Leicester South, Ayoub Khan in Birmingham Perry Barr, Adnan Hussain in Blackburn, and Iqbal Mohamed in Dewsbury and Batley. The ongoing conflict in Gaza was a crucial issue for voters, influencing their choice at the polls.

Both the Conservative and Labour parties, have expressed a desire for the fighting in Gaza to cease. However, their support for Israel’s offensive has angered pro-Palestine and Muslim voters across the country. Labour leader Keir Starmer, who is set to become the next prime minister, faced chants of “Free Palestine” both at his polling station and during his election count. This sentiment reflects the frustration of many voters who feel their concerns about the Gaza conflict are not being adequately addressed.

Jeremy Corbyn, in his victory speech, emphasised that his supporters are seeking a government committed to peace on the global stage and opposed to the dire conditions in Gaza. He described the election result as a “glimpse of a different future” that prioritises the many over the few. Corbyn also issued a warning to the incoming government about the consequences of ignoring dissent. Reflecting on his tenure, he pledged to continue representing the people of Islington North with accountability and inspiration. Other newly elected independents, like Adnan Hussain, echoed similar commitments to addressing injustices in Gaza, highlighting the broader dissatisfaction with the current political stance on the issue.