UK Foreign Secretary Accuses Israel of Ethnic Cleansing, Vows Sanctions

Britain's new Foreign Secretary, Ed Miliband of the Labour Party, delivered a strong condemnation of Israel's actions, accusing the nation of committing "ethnic cleansing" in the West Bank and alleging "increasing evidence of war crimes in Gaza." Speaking at his party's conference, Miliband specifically denounced what he termed the "ethnic cleansing of Palestinians in the West Bank by settler terrorists." He further stated that Prime Minister Netanyahu's government's actions in Gaza represent "a stain on the conscience of the world."

In response to these accusations, Miliband announced concrete measures against the Netanyahu government, including economic sanctions. "We will ban imports from settlements and disrupt supply lines of British finance and services for them," he declared. He emphasized that the new Labour government, led by Andy Burnham, is listening to those concerned about the Palestinian people's plight, stating, "We hear you. You were right."

Miliband, who is the son of Jewish refugees from World War II, framed his stance as a "survivor's responsibility" to speak out against injustice. While affirming Labour's opposition to those seeking Israel's destruction, he argued that such threats do not justify the suffering of Palestinians. Other ministers, such as Middle East Minister Stephen Doughty, echoed this firm stance, promising tangible actions beyond mere statements.