Wes Streeting publishes explosive Mandelson texts, exposing Labour’s deepening crisis over Gaza, leadership and power
Wes Streeting. Image Credit: Lucy North/PA Wire
Health Secretary Wes Streeting has triggered a political firestorm after publicly releasing private text messages with former Labour powerbroker Lord Peter Mandelson, laying bare internal fears, policy disagreements, and explosive views on Israel’s war in Gaza. The unprecedented disclosure comes as Labour grapples with a deepening crisis, following revelations surrounding Mandelson’s controversial appointment as UK ambassador to the United States and renewed scrutiny of his historical links to Jeffrey Epstein.
Published on February 10, 2026, the messages provide a rare, unfiltered glimpse into the anxieties within the highest levels of government, exposing concerns about electoral collapse, economic drift, moral failures, and leadership legitimacy.
Why Wes Streeting Made the Texts Public
Streeting said he released the messages to counter what he described as a growing “smear campaign”, after reports suggested damaging revelations were imminent. Speaking to broadcasters, the health secretary insisted he had “nothing to hide”, arguing that transparency was necessary to protect both his integrity and the government’s credibility.
According to Streeting, the implication that he shared an unusually close relationship with Mandelson was misleading. While acknowledging occasional political advice and social contact, he stressed that their relationship was not intimate, adding that he is now “embarrassed” by any perceived proximity.
Texts Reveal Deep Anxiety Over Labour’s Electoral Prospects
Among the most striking revelations were Streeting’s private doubts about Labour’s electoral future. In a March 2025 message, he warned Mandelson that Labour was “in big trouble,” expressing fear that the party could lose traditionally safe seats in Ilford and Redbridge, particularly amid backlash over Gaza.
His blunt assessment, “There isn’t a clear answer to the question: why Labour?”, has since been seized upon by critics as evidence of a party struggling to articulate its purpose to voters.
Economic Frustrations and Policy Drift Inside Government
The messages also reveal sharp criticism of Labour’s economic direction. Mandelson privately noted that the government lacked a coherent economic philosophy, a sentiment Streeting reinforced with a stark reply: “No growth strategy at all.”
These comments have intensified claims that Labour’s policy agenda lacks clarity at a time of economic uncertainty, fuelling unease among MPs and party members alike.
READ ALSO
“Betrayal of Britain”: Gordon Brown explodes over Mandelson’s Epstein links and secret leaks
Streeting’s Gaza Comments Spark International and Domestic Backlash
The most controversial texts concern Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. In July 2025, Streeting described Israel’s actions as “war crimes”, accusing the Israeli government of using the language of ethnic cleansing and calling for state-level sanctions, not merely penalties against individual ministers.
Streeting warned that Labour risked being overtaken by grassroots pressure unless it took moral leadership on the issue, predicting that party conferences would be dominated by Palestinian solidarity unless the leadership acted decisively.
Mandelson Urges Caution on Palestine Recognition
In contrast, Mandelson urged restraint, warning that unilateral recognition of Palestine could provoke Israeli annexation of the West Bank and permanently undermine a two-state solution. The exchange highlights a wider strategic rift within Labour, balancing moral urgency against diplomatic caution.
Leadership Crisis and Fallout for Keir Starmer
The publication of the texts coincides with mounting pressure on Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, whose decision to appoint Mandelson as US ambassador has already prompted resignations among senior aides. While some Labour figures have openly questioned Starmer’s leadership, Streeting has publicly backed the prime minister, calling for unity and collective responsibility.
Despite this, Streeting’s prominence, and his candid disclosures, have intensified speculation about his long-term leadership ambitions, whether intentional or not.
A Defining Moment for Labour’s Future
As police investigations into Mandelson continue and Labour faces internal unrest, Streeting’s decision to publish the texts may mark a defining moment for the party. Supporters argue it demonstrates honesty and moral seriousness; critics say it exposes damaging divisions at the worst possible time.
What is clear is that these messages have reshaped the political conversation, offering voters an unprecedented look at the pressures and conflicts shaping Britain’s government in 2026.
FAQ
Who is Wes Streeting?
Wes Streeting is the UK Health Secretary and a senior Labour figure, widely regarded as one of the party’s most influential modernisers.
Why did Wes Streeting publish private texts with Peter Mandelson?
Streeting said he released the messages to counter claims that damaging revelations were being concealed and to address allegations about his relationship with Mandelson.
What did the texts reveal about Labour’s internal crisis?
They exposed concerns over electoral losses, lack of economic direction, leadership uncertainty, and divisions over foreign policy, particularly Gaza.
What did Wes Streeting say about Israel and Gaza?
Streeting described Israel’s actions in Gaza as war crimes and called for sanctions against the Israeli state, not just individual officials.
How did Peter Mandelson respond to Streeting’s Gaza stance?
Mandelson urged caution, warning that unilateral actions could jeopardize a two-state solution and provoke further Israeli annexation.
Is Keir Starmer under pressure to resign?
Yes. Several senior resignations and public criticism have increased pressure, though Starmer remains in office and retains backing from Streeting.
Is Wes Streeting positioning himself as a future Labour leader?
While Streeting denies leadership manoeuvring, the disclosures have elevated his profile and intensified speculation about his ambitions.
How has the public reacted to the texts?
Reaction has been deeply divided, with supporters praising transparency and critics warning of reputational damage to Labour.