Labour Party leader Ed Miliband has said he is firmly opposed to Israel’s ground invasion of Gaza.

In an interview with the Huffington Post, Mr Miliband said: “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.”

Mr Miliband, who is polling higher than David Cameron ahead of next year’s general election, met President Barack Obama and National Security Adviser Susan Rice at the White House yesterday to discuss the Gaza crisis, among other issues.

Mr Miliband has also criticised the heavy loss of civilian life which he attributed to the invasion by Israeli ground forces.

“As a party we oppose the further escalation of violence we have seen with Israel's invasion of Gaza," he said.

“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.”