Green deputy leader defends comments on Leeds rabbi

The Green Party is facing criticism over comments made by Mothin Ali, the party's deputy leader, regarding a Leeds rabbi. Ali referred to Zecharia Deutsch, who served in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), as an "animal." This statement has sparked outrage and calls for Ali's removal from the party. The controversy arose after Deutsch, a rabbi in Leeds, was criticized for his past military service. Ali defended the criticism, saying that Deutsch's actions were "unacceptable" and that he could not be considered a "good person" for serving in the IDF. The Green Party has distanced itself from Ali's comments, stating that they do not reflect the party's values. The party has also faced calls to take disciplinary action against Ali, with some arguing that his comments were antisemitic and unacceptable. The incident highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the role of the IDF in the region. The Green Party's response will be closely watched as it navigates this sensitive issue.