Starmer writes to Labour councillors amid criticism of Israel-Gaza stance

Labour leader's letter comes amid warnings that dozens of councillors could resign over party's stance on conflict

Keir Starmer has written to Labour councillors expressing his sympathy for innocent Palestinian and Israeli people amid warnings that dozens could resign over the party's stance on the conflict.

Several councillors have resigned since last week and at least 20 more are braced to quit the party over the leadership's unwillingness to show value to the humanity of Palestinian lives", the Guardian understands.