What's happened
Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana are planning to co-lead a new political party, following Sultana's departure from Labour over disagreements on Gaza and welfare policies. The move signals a potential challenge to Labour's leadership and aims to unite left-wing and pro-Palestinian supporters, with ongoing discussions about the party's structure and leadership.
What's behind the headline?
The emergence of a new left-wing party led by Corbyn and Sultana underscores deep fractures within UK politics. Their alliance, rooted in opposition to the current Labour leadership and policies, aims to mobilize disillusioned voters, especially those sympathetic to Palestine and critical of welfare reforms. This new formation will likely fragment the left vote, benefiting Reform UK and other right-wing parties, which see this as an opportunity to consolidate support. Corbyn's reluctance to assume a formal leadership role suggests a preference for collective decision-making, potentially leading to a more grassroots, activist-driven organization. The timing, amid Labour's internal conflicts and declining popularity, indicates a strategic move to capitalize on dissatisfaction and push for a more radical, anti-establishment alternative. If successful, this new party could reshape the UK's political landscape, challenging Labour's dominance and shifting the debate on foreign policy, welfare, and social justice.
What the papers say
The Times of Israel highlights Corbyn's history with Labour and his ongoing efforts to create a new political platform, emphasizing his long-standing opposition to Labour's handling of antisemitism and his recent discussions about forming a new party. The Guardian reports on Sultana's surprise departure and her support for Corbyn's initiative, noting her criticisms of government policies and her frustration with Labour's direction. The Mirror provides insight into Corbyn's cautious approach to leadership within the new movement, emphasizing his preference for collective decision-making and the internal tensions caused by Sultana's announcement. All sources agree that the move signifies a significant split within the UK left, with potential implications for future elections and party dynamics.
How we got here
Corbyn was expelled from Labour in 2020 after a report criticized his handling of antisemitism complaints. Sultana, a Labour MP, announced her departure amid disagreements over the party's stance on Gaza and welfare cuts, and her support for anti-government protests. Both have been vocal critics of UK foreign policy and domestic welfare policies, and their move to form a new party reflects ongoing divisions within Labour and the broader left-wing movement in the UK.
Go deeper
Common question
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What Do Recent Political and Regional Tensions Mean for Global Stability?
Recent developments across the UK, Asia, and the South China Sea are shaping the geopolitical landscape. From Jeremy Corbyn's new political move to rising regional disputes, these events raise important questions about future stability and international relations. Here are some key questions and answers to help you understand what’s happening and why it matters.
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Zarah Sultana (born 31 October 1993) is a British politician who has served as Member of Parliament (MP) for Coventry South since 2019. She was a Labour Party MP until the whip was suspended in July 2024 due to her being one of seven Labour MPs who voted.
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The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom or Britain, is a sovereign country located off the northwestern coast of the European mainland.
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Reform UK is a populist political party in the United Kingdom. It was founded as The Brexit Party with a focus on Euroscepticism in November 2018, until being renamed on 6 January 2021.