Andy Burnham has apologised for Labour’s initial stance on Gaza, saying the party “didn’t get it right” at the start of Israel’s military action and that its response “has too often not been good enough”.

In a video shared on social media, the Makerfield MP—widely seen as a frontrunner for Labour leadership—told viewers he understands why many people feel Labour fell short and said the party needed to “do better”.

Burnham said the UK had been “too slow” to call for a ceasefire, and added that Labour should strengthen its approach going forward. He indicated that he wants to increase pressure on the Israeli government through sanctions aimed at individuals and entities.

While he stopped short of using the term “genocide”, Burnham said he was “appalled” by what he had seen and read, pointing to “increasing evidence” of potential war crimes and arguing that accountability should ultimately be determined by international courts rather than politicians.

The apology also marked a sign of Burnham seeking a shift away from the position associated with the previous Labour leadership, which emphasised Israel’s right to defend itself. Burnham’s comments were made in the context of leadership moves within the party, with nominations underway and Burnham appearing as the sole candidate.