This is not the first time Blair has made clear his view that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a major destabilizing influence in a region the United Kingdom has always considered vital to its interests.

Blair is known to have strong feelings of affection for Israel. He is also committed to the creation of a Palestinian state which he believes is essential to restoring some semblance of calm in the Middle East.

Just prior to the onset of the Iraq war, he strongly urged President Bush to push hard for negotiations. He was disappointed that his entreaties did not accomplish much other than a photo op in Aqaba.

by MJ Rosenberg