A EURO MP wants the Government to urge Israel to pull its forces out of the land controlled by the Palestinian authorities.

Liberal Democrat Chris Davies said the killing of Palestinian civilians by the Israeli army cannot be justified as a response to terrorist attacks. He also claims new opportunities to bring a peaceful settlement in the Middle East have been squandered.

"The occupation of Palestinian lands and the humiliation and killing of Palestinian people undermines the prospect of long-term peace and security for Israel," he said.

"Far from reducing the number of suicide bombers, the Israeli tactics can only fuel the flame of hatred, causing more people to blow themselves up in the hope that they can kill some Jewish people at the same time."

The MEP said members of the European Union should try to have more influence on the Middle East.

He added: "With the United States refusing to get involved, the European Union should take the lead. The need for the EU nations to agree a strong and united policy has never been greater."