Title: David Lammy Confronted by Pro-Palestine Protesters Demanding Ceasefire

Labour's shadow foreign secretary, David Lammy, received an interruption during his speech at the Fabian Society conference on Saturday as pro-Palestinian protesters stormed the stage. The demonstrators called for Lammy to condemn the alleged genocide in the Israel-Gaza conflict and demanded an immediate ceasefire.

As Lammy addressed the conference, two flag-waving protesters entered the stage shouting, "When will you condemn the genocide? How many more children need to die?" The confrontation occurred amidst ongoing protests by pro-Palestinian activists who staged sit-ins at Barclays bank branches across the country, urging an end to the bank's investment in companies supplying Israel's military operations in Gaza.

Temporarily taken backstage at London's Guildhall, Lammy soon returned to the stage with a light-hearted response, joking, "I was born in Tottenham, don't worry." One of the protesters unfurled a Palestinian flag, while another, later identified as Kay Oz, accused Lammy of having "blood on his hands." Despite the repeated heckling, Lammy emphasized the desire for a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza and expressed his support for change through political power rather than protest.

Following the incident, Lammy received a standing ovation upon completing his speech, during which he had earlier voiced support for the establishment of a Palestinian state once the Middle East conflict comes to an end. He also criticized the opposition of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to these plans as "unacceptable," arguing that it would perpetuate the occupation and siege in Gaza.

The Labour Party has faced criticism from some of its members and activists for its response to the conflict in Gaza, especially since Israel retaliated against the October 7 attacks by Hamas. However, Lammy reiterated his respect for protesters and their desire for change. Speaking to Sky News after his speech, Lammy recalled his own history of protesting against the poll tax and apartheid in South Africa in the 1980s. He emphasized that the Labour Party aims to achieve change through political power, rather than relying solely on protests.

Lammy's confrontation highlights the divisive nature of the Israel-Gaza conflict, attracting attention and sparking discussions about the best strategies to bring about change and peace in the region.