Dozens of pro-Gaza activists are elected to councils across Britain as fears ... trends now
Dozens of pro-Palestinian campaigners have been elected as councillors as the war in Gaza hit town halls across Britain.
More than 40 councillors were elected in England after making the conflict part of their campaign, analysis of Thursday's vote suggests.
Some wore rosettes in the colours of the Palestinian flag while others dedicated their victories to the people of Gaza.
One shouted: 'We will raise the voice of Palestine. Allahu Akbar!'
In at least 12 town halls, they defeated Labour candidates, prompting opposition leader Sir Keir Starmer to pledge to win back the trust of voters alienated over his stance on the issue.
The moment a Green Party councillor shouts 'Allahu Akbar' after being elected in Leeds
More than 40 councillors were elected in England after making the conflict part of their campaign, analysis of Thursday's vote suggests. Pictured: Councillor Mothin Ali
His comments led one pressure group, The Muslim Vote, to issue him with an extraordinary set of 18 demands, including ending Britain's military ties with Israel and recognising the state of Palestine.
Last night senior Tories said they feared the elections will mean town halls end up being dominated by debates over foreign affairs rather than local services.
Ex-Cabinet minister Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg told the Mail: 'People are entitled to their views but foreign affairs is a matter for the House of Commons, not local councils.
'This is a consequence of the Left's attempt to segment society and create a coalition of minorities rather than a unified whole. This is very divisive for the country at large.'
Former Home Office minister Sir John Hayes added: 'I find it disturbing when you have people standing for election not because they care about making a contribution to building a better Britain, but because they are more interested in events overseas.
'It's important that people can express their
