LONDON: Within the UK Conservative Party, a notable shift in sentiment is emerging regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza, as some MPs express private alignment with calls from Prime Minister Keir Starmer and his international allies for Israel to cease military operations.

Conservative MP Mark Pritchard articulated that a significant number of his colleagues in the party are in agreement with this stance.

Speaking on the LBC radio station, Pritchard characterized Starmer’s approach as being on the 'right side of history' and consistent with 'humanity.' He emphasized the humanitarian aspects of the conflict, particularly highlighting that a substantial portion of Gaza's population comprises children who are facing dire conditions due to the conflict.

Pritchard stated, 'Half the population of Gaza are children.

They are being literally bombed to bits every single day.

They are being slowly starved.' This statement underscores a growing concern among some Conservative MPs about the humanitarian impact of the ongoing violence.

Concurrently, Pritchard acknowledged his self-identification as pro-Israel, indicating a complex relationship between supporting Israel and advocating for Palestinian rights.

He referenced the necessity for the UK to recognize a Palestinian state as a potential symbol of support for both Israelis and Palestinians alike.

This proposition aligns with an increasing dialogue around accountability for actions taken by the Israeli government.

His comments come amid controversy within the party, particularly following remarks by Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who expressed skepticism regarding new British sanctions targeting Israeli settlers and has distanced herself from joint statements by the UK, France, and Canada that condemned Israeli actions in Gaza.

Those leaders characterized recent events as 'egregious' and signaled that they may pursue 'concrete actions' if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu does not alter his strategy.

Netanyahu has responded by asserting that the UK and its allies are on the 'wrong side of justice.' In the wake of these developments, Pritchard expressed support for Badenoch while also advocating for a more humanitarian approach in handling the situation in Gaza.

His comments reflect a nuanced position within the Conservative Party as voices advocating for a reevaluation of the UK's stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict gain traction.