Miliband expresses opposition to Israel’s ground action in Gaza

Ed Miliband has expressed opposition to Israel’s ground operation in Gaza.

His comments came during the Labour leader’s visit to America where he held talks with Barack Obama and national security advisor Susan Rice on a range of issues including Gaza.

He told the Huffington Post: “We oppose the Israeli incursion into Gaza. I don’t think it will help win Israel friends. I don’t think this will make the situation better. I fear it will make it worse.”

He added: “As a party we oppose the further escalation of violence we have seen with Israel’s invasion of Gaza. I defend Israel’s right to defend itself against rocket attacks.

“But I cannot explain, justify or defend the horrifying deaths of hundreds of Palestinians, including children and innocent civilians.”

The comments strike a very different tone to those of Daavid Cameron who has been roundly praised by Israel’s supporters for his reaction to the crisis.