Worker's union at Ford's Chicago plant joins call to not build or ship weapons to Israel

United Auto Workers Local 551, the auto worker's union representing the Chicago assembly plant for the Ford motor company, has endorsed a call from Palestinian trade unions to "refuse to build weapons destined for Israel".

In a statement issued by UAW Local 551, the labour union also issued a call to refuse to transport weapons bound for Israel.

The move comes after the UAW called for a ceasefire in Gaza. However, the union's endorsement of Biden has led to some internal dissent, with some members calling for the organisation to endorse political candidates who don't support Israel's war in Gaza.

The statement from the Chicago chapter on Tuesday is a significant development, particularly as some Ford vehicles have been used as the foundation of light armoured vehicles used by Israel's military.