'Conspiracy of silence': Parliament set to debate Israeli influence on British politics

'Conspiracy of silence': Parliament set to debate Israeli influence on British politics Submitted by Fleur Hargreaves on Fri, 05/29/2026 - 14:00 Government agrees to debate on ‘pro-Israel lobby activity in UK politics’ after more than 116,000 sign petition Protesters take part in a march organised by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign in central London on 11 October 2025 (Henry Nicholls/AFP) Off Politicians are set to discuss Israeli influence on British politics and democracy after a government petition garnered more than 100,000 signatures, mandating a debate in parliament. The  petition has been scheduled for debate in parliament on 22 June after receiving more than 116,000 signatures. The petition raises concerns about "reported Israeli state-linked and pro-Israel lobbying activity in UK politics” and emphasises the importance of “determin[ing] the scope and impact of such influence campaigns”.  “We feel that the horrific devastation in Gaza, the ongoing suppression of Palestinians in the West Bank, and the UK’s political response underline the urgent need to scrutinise how pro-Israel organisations, networks, and lobbying efforts may shape government decisions, party policy, and public debate,” it reads. Petitions posted on the UK government website that gain more than 100,000 signatures must be debated in parliament, while at 10,000 signatures, the government must issue a response. The government has previously rejected the proposal for an investigation into Israeli lobbying, claiming it was “already taking action to address this”. However, campaigners and politicians say examining the web of lobby groups, party factions, corporate entities and political bodie...

Original source: Middle East Eye