Labour Party leader Ed Miliband: The basis of the success of negotiations is the recognition of a Palestinian state

The basis for the success of the negotiations between the Palestinians and Israelis depends on Israeli recognition of a viable independent Palestinian state, living side by side with the State of Israel, the leader of the British Labour Party and opposition Ed Miliband said.

In an exclusive interview with Al-Quds News Agency Miliband added that we are going through a very critical and extremely sensitive period, and “we stress the need to establish a Palestinian state, along with the importance of maintaining the borders and the security of Israel. This is the two-state solution in which we believe.”

He continued: “I think that there is an urgent need for this solution and as soon as possible. After I saw with my own eyes the construction of settlements and at the fast pace it was going at, I realised that this was a real threat for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state and that we must put pressure on both sides to sit at the negotiating table and agree on radical solutions, fast.”

Miliband emphasised the Labour Party’s support for a Palestinian state asserting that this has been the party’s position for a long time, adding that the party is proud of its position on this matter and that it supports the decision of the UN Security Council and will continue this support should they come to power because the foundation is the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

When asked about his support for the idea of a Jewish State of Israel, Miliband replied: “I can describe Israel as a homeland for the Jewish people, because my family, who are Jewish, found refuge in Israel. I also have my own reasons for supporting this idea.”

When asked whether he considered himself part of the Jewish community in Britain, Miliband said: “Yes, as both my parents are Jewish and being Jewish is part of who I am, but I believe in my principles without fear. I support the two-state solution and Israel’s security and I am adamant on this principle.”

Miliband believes that if he became prime minister of Britain, he would push with action in support of a two-state solution, as opposed to empty words. He affirmed that he would make it a priority for his government and that it must show direct involvement in solving the problem, rather than be an observer.

Miliband continued: “The Palestinian-Israeli conflict is an issue for the whole world and I think that the British Labour Party must be involved in this conflict. I believe that if it’s involved, then we would be in a different situation. This is a matter of justice and the rights to the security and stability of the region.

“When I met the Bedouin family in Khan Al-Ahmar during my visit to the region, I was very concerned about what they were going through and their inability to defend themselves to what they were facing. They were helpless and I believe that the settlements are illegal and unlawful and affect the existence of Bedouin life in this country so that even their schools are in danger.”

He said: “We will do what we can to support the Palestinians. We are not only interested in a two-state solution, but also in diplomatic relations beyond that, both through a role played by Britain in the UN and through its independent dealings, as well as through the department of international development. There are also many other ways.

“There are a lot of Brits who are very interested in the Palestinians and what will happen to them, and they are making their voices heard in Britain.”

Regarding his opinion about the accession of Palestine to the international conventions, Miliband refused to give his opinion, pointing out that “they are playing the role of observers”. He continued: “I’ll leave this question for other people to answer, because we are at a sensitive and critical stage in the negotiations, until negotiations resume their natural course.”

The leader of the British Labour Party concluded his interview with Al-Quds saying: “I am determined to do everything we can, and use all our capabilities, for peace. There are Jews who believe that justice and security in this world is crucial and must be sought.”

Miliband is touring the region and met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah on Saturday. He also visited the area of Khan Al-Ahmar and was briefed on the humanitarian violations against its population.

During his meeting with Hamdallah, Miliband praised the work of the Palestinian authorities for their advancement and development of Palestinian government institutions, leading to an independent Palestinian state, stressing Britain’s commitment to providing all forms of support for state-building.

Miliband is considered a strong contender for the upcoming British elections for the position of prime minister.

Translated from Al Quds News Agency