The UK's House of Commons was thrown into disarray as the government and the Scottish National Party (SNP) clashed over Speaker Lindsay Hoyle's handling of a crucial vote regarding support for a ceasefire in Gaza. Tensions escalated as SNP members of parliament (MPs) and some Conservatives staged a walkout from the chamber in protest of the speaker's actions during the debate on Wednesday.

Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt accused Hoyle of "hijacking" the debate and undermining the House's confidence by allowing MPs to vote on a Labour amendment to an SNP motion calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Israel. The SNP motion also condemned the "collective punishment" of the Palestinian people by Israel.

The decision to prioritize the Labour Party's rival motion, which contained language noting Israel's right to defend against Hamas violence, sparked controversy as Hoyle was accused of breaking with tradition. This move allowed Labour to avoid internal division, with the potential for a significant rebellion against party leader Keir Starmer.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has exposed a deep divide within Labour, as the party grapples with differing opinions on the Palestinian cause. Starmer's attempt to distance himself from his predecessor Jeremy Corbyn's stance has drawn criticism for allegedly overlooking the plight of Palestinians.

Following the chaotic parliamentary session, SNP MP Ian Blackford lamented that the focus had shifted away from the urgent need to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. A motion expressing no confidence in Hoyle has been put forward by Conservative MP William Wragg, reflecting the widespread discontent among lawmakers with what they perceive as a departure from the speaker's neutral role.

As tensions continue to simmer, the fallout from the contentious vote has left the UK Parliament embroiled in a procedural quagmire, with the substantive issue of civilian lives in Gaza overshadowed by political wrangling.