Labour removes gloves: Britain declares economic war on Israel

British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband delivered a tough speech at the Labour Party conference, including sharp criticism of Israel and an announcement of operational measures: a ban on imports of goods from settlements and disruption of British supply lines. The speech marks a confrontational line by the British government toward Israel.

British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband delivered an especially tough speech at the Labour Party conference, announcing a significant policy shift toward Israel. In his speech, Miliband condemned what he called "ethnic cleansing by settler terrorists in the West Bank" and noted "evidence of war crimes in Gaza." The main part of the speech was devoted to announcing operational measures: a ban on imports of goods from settlements and disruption of British supply lines of finance, construction, and services to settlements. Miliband made clear that the declarations would be backed by immediate actions, and emphasized that Labour is committed to a two-state solution. The speech received loud applause from conference attendees and marks a confrontational line by the British government toward the Netanyahu government. However, Miliband noted that Labour will always recognize the existential threats to Israel and will stand against those who seek to destroy it, but these threats do not justify Palestinian suffering.