Ed Miliband, the UK's Foreign Secretary, has pledged to overhaul Britain's policy regarding Israel, emphasizing efforts to halt British companies from contributing to illegal settlements in the West Bank. This commitment was made during his first address to the House of Commons in his new role.

Key Points

  • Miliband aims to prevent UK involvement in projects like the controversial E1 plan, which critics argue would divide the West Bank.
  • His remarks follow Israel's recent issuance of tenders for approximately one-third of the 3,400 homes planned for the E1 project.
  • He described the settlement as "the crossing of a red line," stating:
    “

    "It cuts through the heart of the West Bank and risks making a Palestinian state unviable. This government will not acquiesce in the destruction of the two-state solution. We will act, and I will set out a comprehensive set of measures in the coming weeks."

Context

Miliband's comments come amid increasing pressure on the UK government to impose stricter sanctions on Israel, particularly concerning the E1 plan. Last month, Israel invited bids for contracts to construct 1,200 homes for the project, which lies between East Jerusalem and the settlement of Ma’ale Adumim. A coalition of former British diplomats urged the government in May to threaten action against any companies involved in building illegal settlements that threaten the viability of Palestine.