UK PM-in-waiting Andy Burnham says Labour “didn’t get it right” on Gaza

Andy Burnham, widely regarded as the United Kingdom’s prime minister-in-waiting, has publicly apologised for the Labour Party’s early handling of ‘Israel’s’ assault on Gaza.

In a video message shared on social media on Thursday, Burnham acknowledged shortcomings in the party’s initial position and signalled a commitment to a stronger approach under his anticipated leadership.

“I know many people feel that at the start of Israel’s military action in Gaza, my party didn’t get it right and I am sorry about that. The response has too often not been good enough. We need to do better,” Burnham stated.

Labour’s initial response to the treatment of Gaza caused huge hurt. We got it wrong and I am sorry for that. pic.twitter.com/MtQxhp71J3

— Andy Burnham (@andyburnham) July 9, 2026

He further noted that the United Kingdom was “too slow to call for a ceasefire” and described the “unbearable suffering” in Gaza as “a scar on our collective conscience.”

Burnham emphasised the need for the party to strengthen its response, including applying greater pressure on the ‘Israeli’ government.

The apology arrives as Burnham secures overwhelming support from 322 Labour MPs, positioning him to assume the role of Prime Minister in the coming days.

He previously re-entered Parliament in June 2026 after winning a by-election in the Makerfield constituency, having served as Mayor of Greater Manchester.

Burnham has advocated for additional measures, such as further sanctions on ‘Israeli’ figures involved in settler violence and a ban on trade in goods from illegal settlements.

He acknowledged increasing evidence of potential war crimes but deferred final determinations to international courts.