UK pledges tougher measures over Israeli actions in Gaza and West Bank
At Labour’s conference, Foreign Minister Ed Miliband pledged sanctions and measures targeting economic links with Israeli settlements, while backing the two-state solution.
The UK government plans a tougher stance on Israel’s actions in Gaza and the occupied West Bank, Foreign Minister Ed Miliband said at the Labour Party conference. He pledged sanctions and measures to match the government’s stated support for Palestinian rights with action.
Miliband outlined steps to restrict economic links with Israeli settlements, including disrupting supply lines for British finance, construction and services. The scope and timing of the newly pledged measures were not specified.
The commitments follow a UK ban, announced earlier this month, on imports of goods produced by illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. The government described it as its most significant policy since the UK recognised Palestinian statehood last year.
Miliband said Labour would oppose moves threatening a two-state solution. The remarks came amid concern over Israel’s approved E1 settlement project east of Jerusalem, which the source says could divide the occupied West Bank.
Dozens were arrested at a pro-Palestinian rally outside the conference in Liverpool. The available account gives no details about charges or the police response.
