Cambridge Council first to call for Israel ceasefire & arms sales ban

Cambridge City Council, with a Labour majority, made history as the first in the UK to pass a motion for a Gaza ceasefire and to stop arming Israel. The council unanimously agreed to press the government for a ceasefire, revoke arms export licenses to Israel, and halt arms sales. They also vowed to explore the possibility of cutting ties with Barclays due to the bank’s investments in companies linked to Israel’s military.

Labour councillor Alice Gilderdale emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that they couldn’t stay silent amidst the tragedies in Gaza. This bold move sets Cambridge apart from other UK cities in taking a stand on the Gaza conflict.

Additionally, Labour’s shadow foreign secretary, David Lammy, called for a pause in arms sales to Israel on May 12. Cambridge Stop The War activists expressed their gratitude to Palestine activists for their relentless campaigning.

Student activism in Cambridge has also been notable, with protests urging divestment from companies supporting Israel’s actions. Trinity College recently decided to divest from arms companies, although the move was not publicly announced following an activist’s actions. The city continues to be a hub of activism and advocacy for peace in the Middle East.