27 sourcesPublic Speech

Andy McDonald: 'River to the Sea' Rally Speech

London, United Kingdom
PoliticsControversyParliamentaryIsrael-Palestine ConflictAntisemitism Allegations
Background

On October 14, 2023, British Labour MP Andy McDonald made a controversial statement at a pro-Palestine rally in London, calling for justice and peaceful coexistence 'between the river and the sea' - a phrase interpreted by some as supporting the elimination of Israel. This led to McDonald's suspension from the Labour Party, which claimed his comments were 'deeply offensive'. After an investigation, McDonald's whip was later restored in March 2024 following a party inquiry. The incident sparked significant debate and media coverage around the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the limits of political speech.

Timeline

Statement by Andy McDonald
AAndy McDonald
via PUBLIC_SPEECH
“We won't rest until we have justice, until all people, Israelis and Palestinians, between the river and the sea can live in peaceful liberty.
Context: Andy McDonald made this statement during a pro-Palestine rally in London organized by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign. The rally was held following the outbreak of violence between Israel and Hamas in Gaza that began on 7 October 2023. McDonald was speaking as one of several MPs addressing the crowd about the conflict and calling for peace.

References

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Published October 3, 2025

Last edited February 12, 2026

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