Palestine mural is divisive and insensitive, say Lib Dems

But the group behind the mural in Lowesmoor have defended the “beautiful piece of art” and reminded people of the reasons behind its existence.

Lib Dem councillors say “many residents” have expressed concern about the Heroes of Palestine mural, which appeared in the city in March.

In a statement, they said the council has no legal power to remove the mural as it is on private land.

SUPPORT: Campaigners including Green councillors defending the mural on June 1 (Image: Karen Lewing)

“As Liberals we will always champion freedom of expression and individual rights to express a political opinion and it is right for the law to protect it,” they said. “However, this doesn’t mean we need to like or agree with that opinion.

“It’s our belief that this mural is insensitive and is clearly taking sides on what is a complex and painful conflict that will be affecting many in the community.”

Group leader Jessie Jagger said: “This mural is intended to provoke, it’s not about raising awareness or making a difference in the lives of people trapped in this awful conflict.

“It’s cleverly masquerading a divisive political opinion as a humanitarian message.

READ MORE: Pro-Palestine mural could be torn down under planning rules

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“It disregards the complexity of feelings around this in our community. If this group really wanted to do something useful, they would paint the wall white and record the names of all the children who have been killed on both sides of this conflict before they are relegated to the dustbin of history.”

Green councillors have previously campaigned to keep the mural, while Labour's city council leader Lynn Denham and deputy leader Jabba Riaz said tearing it down would be a "provocative act".

A spokesperson for the Worcester Palestine Solidarity campaign said: "This beautiful piece of art is a way to represent and amplify the bravery of a nine-year-old child and a young mother of two who have suffered a brutal occupation throughout their whole lives.

“It is likely that all the wall space in Worcester would not be large enough to display the names of those who have been killed during Israel's prolonged and illegal occupation, settlement and annexation of Palestinian territories since 1948. There have been over 40,000 deaths.

“If they see portraits championing these individuals as provocative, we can only suggest they look away and continue to bury their heads in the sand, just like so many of our Western governments have done since 1948.”