Save the Children has ignited a fiery controversy with a scathing social media post on X accusing outgoing Prime Minister Keir Starmer of complicity in the deaths of thousands of civilians in the Israel-Gaza conflict. The inflammatory statement, which has been viewed over 300,000 times since its publication on Tuesday, claims that Starmer's government failed to adequately address the situation by continuing to supply arms to Israel, despite implementing some restrictions in 2024.
The charity's post features a mocked-up blue plaque with a stark message: "History will not forget complicity. Keir Starmer witnessed 73,000 Palestinians killed by Israeli forces, including 21,000 children, and kept supplying arms to Israel." The move has sparked a heated response from government officials, with the Foreign Office reportedly contacting Save the Children to request an explanation.
Tensions are heightened as the charity receives significant funding from the government - approximately £114 million since 2024. A government source expressed concern that the post could exacerbate anxiety among MPs already on edge following the death of former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe, whose case is being investigated by counter-terror police. Another minister condemned the post as "completely unfitting for a children's charity," describing it as "divisive hyperbole and misinformation."
The move comes as part of a broader campaign by 17 humanitarian organisations, including ActionAid and Amnesty International, which have issued a joint statement urging the incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham to take decisive action on Gaza and the occupied West Bank. Their demands include a complete suspension of arms sales to Israel and trade sanctions until alleged breaches of international law cease.
Liz Bradshaw, senior conflict and humanitarian advocacy adviser at Save the Children UK, reiterated the urgency of the situation: "For far too long, Palestinian children have endured the devastating consequences of relentless violence, displacement, and destruction. It is imperative that leaders take immediate action to protect these innocent lives."