Labour Youth calls for Israeli Labour Party Suspension from Socialist International

Issued : Wednesday 7 January, 2009

Labour Youth has called for the Socialist International the umbrella group for Socialist and Social-Democratic parties across the world to suspend the membership of the Israeli Labour Party from the organisation.

Labour Youth Chairperson Gary Honer said: "The ongoing slaughter and murder of innocent civilians in the Gaza strip requires concerted international action. The Socialist International is a body which respects human rights as a core value.

"The actions of the Israeli Labour Party as a member of the Government of Israel are an affront to these values. In particular, Ehud Barack as Defence Minister is orchestrating the illegal and deplorable attacks on the people of Gaza.

"As a consequence we believe that the actions of the Israeli Labour Party are reprehensible and the Socialist International must act to suspend their membership. The solution to the crisis in the Middle East must begin with an immediate ceasefire.

"Israel must comply with international law, respect the elected representatives of the Palestinian people and agree to a return to pre 1967 borders with a viable Palestinian state. Until this happens Labour Youth pledges its full solidarity with the Palestinian people and their struggle for freedom."