The Green Party's Decision on Zionism and Antisemitism: Our Statement

Like many residents of Trafford, the Liberal Democrats have been shocked by the Green Party's decision to vote for a motion that not only described Zionism as racism but also called for Israel to be replaced by a single Palestinian state.

We are also deeply concerned by the fact that the Green Party rejected an amendment intended to protect Jewish Green Party members from disciplinary action for participating in Jewish community organisations, including synagogues.

The Green Party has crossed a line, and as Liberals, we cannot remain silent. We believe this risks discrimination against Jewish people, something that should never be tolerated in British politics.

The Trafford Liberal Democrats want to make it clear: our party will never tolerate antisemitism or racism, no matter where it comes from.

We also believe in the right to self-determination. In practice, this means supporting a two-state solution and the right of both Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace, security and dignity.

It is deeply disappointing that the Green Party has chosen a position that, in our view, fails to recognise the importance of Jewish self-determination.

Criticism of the Israeli government is legitimate, just as criticism of any government is. But that must not come at the expense of the rights of Jewish people or the legitimate aspirations of Palestinians.

At a time when antisemitism and hatred are rising across Britain, political parties have a responsibility to bring communities together, not drive them further apart.

There is no contradiction between standing up for Palestinian rights, defending Israel's right to exist and opposing antisemitism.

Jewish people should never have to choose between their identity, their community and their political beliefs.

We will always stand against antisemitism, defend the rights of both Israelis and Palestinians, and support a peaceful two-state solution.

These are fundamental liberal values, and we will not compromise on them.