UK FM says Israel turning 'blind eye' to 'ethnic cleansing' in West Bank

British foreign minister Ed Miliband accused the Israeli government on Tuesday of turning a "blind eye" to what he called "ethnic cleansing" by settlers in the West Bank.

He told parliament the UK would introduce an import ban on goods from illegal settlements, in a move coordinated with other countries.

What did the UK foreign minister say about Israel and the West Bank?

Miliband told MPs that the British government agrees ethnic cleansing of Palestinians is taking place in parts of the West Bank, carried out by settler terrorists.

He said the Israeli government has all too often turned a blind eye to this. He added that some of its members have made statements and taken actions supporting the forced displacement of Palestinians.

What new measures did the UK announce against Israeli settlements?

Miliband announced the UK will introduce an import ban on goods from illegal settlements in the occupied territories. Britain will also take action against specific companies and individuals that provide construction, infrastructure, financing or real estate services for settlement expansion. He said these measures would be in place within six to nine months.

Miliband confirmed the UK was sanctioning a further set of extremist settlers accused of supporting or inciting violence against Palestinian communities. Britain had already suspended more than 30 export licenses for arms used by the Israeli military during its war with Hamas in Gaza. Miliband said the UK would now refuse all license applications for arms and other exports that materially contribute to the occupation.

How did Miliband address his own Jewish heritage?

Miliband, the son of Jewish refugees to Britain, said he was proud of his Jewish heritage and remained unwavering in his support of Israel. He said there is absolutely no contradiction between that support and his backing for the State of Palestine.

What other sanctions did the UK announce?

Miliband also announced sanctions against Al-Qard Al-Hasan Association, a financial arm of Hezbollah in Lebanon. He confirmed the UK would reimpose economic sanctions against Iran, in line with measures taken by the European Union and the United States.