IWGB Statement in Solidarity with the People of Palestine

As trade unionists, we believe that international solidarity is a key part of our movement. The IWGB has a proud history of standing on the side of the exploited and oppressed. Over the past 75 years Palestinians have faced a brutal settler colonial occupation that has been described by international human rights organisations as apartheid, a system of domination and a crime against humanity. The IWGB reiterates its support for the Palestinian struggle for freedom outlined in our May 2021 statement and motion.

The IWGB is deeply concerned by the current military action that Israel is undertaking: intensively and indiscriminately bombarding Gaza, cutting off fuel, electricity, water, food, and medical supplies and executing a mass forced displacement. Some international law experts are warning of Israel’s intent to commit genocide against the people of Gaza. This action is the culmination of a historic blockade and the siege imposed on millions of Palestinians for decades.

We condemn the violence that has been enabled and encouraged by Western governments, including the UK government. We stand in unequivocal solidarity with the people of Gaza. We reject the proposition that anti-Zionism and criticisms of Israel equate to anti-semitism. The struggle for the liberation of Palestine is an anti-colonial and anti-apartheid struggle and as such is supported by millions of workers of all faiths and backgrounds, including Muslim and Jewish communities, across the world. We oppose all forms of racism including anti-Palestinian and anti-Arab racism, and racism against Jews, Muslims and people of colour.

This current cycle of violence will not stop until Israel ends its illegal occupation. We call on the UK government and all foreign governments involved to stop their interventions, to stop fanning the flames of war, and on the whole international community to demand an immediate ceasefire and an end to Israel’s military action and illegal occupation. We encourage our members and supporters to mobilise in support of Palestine.

We support the call to action from Palestinian Trade Unions to:

1. Campaign in our workplaces for a boycott of Israeli and international companies that are complicit in violations of Palestinian rights.
2. Support and amplify campaigns that take action to prevent weapons destined for Israel from being built and transported.
3. Support and amplify campaigns to pressure the UK government to stop all military trade with Israel.
4. Pass motions in our branches to this effect.