Labour Cabinet Disputes Syria Intervention Decisions

A public dispute has erupted within the Labour Cabinet after Health Secretary Wes Streeting criticized Energy Secretary Ed Miliband's opposition to military action against Bashar al-Assad in 2013. Streeting claimed that the UK's hesitation allowed Assad to remain in power longer, suggesting that quicker action could have led to his downfall. In response, Miliband defended his decision, asserting that the lack of a clear military plan and exit strategy prevented him from supporting airstrikes. He emphasized that historical context, including the consequences of the Iraq war, informed his stance and rejected the notion that airstrikes would have guaranteed Assad's removal. The exchange highlights ongoing tensions within the Labour Party regarding its past foreign policy decisions. This cabinet split comes as the party grapples with its legacy and future direction amidst increasing scrutiny.