International trade union solidarity has long been about campaigning for peace, cooperation, economic development and education. This is most acute in the Middle East, which is why the international trade union movement has been closely following discussion of a TUC motion calling for a boycott of Israel.

Boycott motions of this kind have the unintended consequence of aligning with groups that are openly trying to scupper the current peace talks and could critically damage the ability of British unions to play a constructive role in the Middle East. And while UK union calls to boycott Israel have been gathering pace, conversely cooperation between Israeli and Palestinian trade unions has been increasing.

The International Trade Union Confederation recently passed a resolution committing to work with both the Histadrut (Israeli TUC) and the Palestine General Federation of Trade Unions (PGFTU). It has also developed a plan to help Palestinian workers and develop joint Israeli-Palestinian trade union initiatives.

The International Transport Workers’ Federation has been tirelessly working on initiatives between Israeli and Palestinian transport workers since 2007. There have been some real success stories and the numerous agreements have created an environment of trust between those from both sides, enabling them to get on with their jobs and lives.

While this cooperation is not a panacea to end the conflict, it provides the building blocks for trust and confidence towards a long-term peace settlement and it crucially has the full endorsement and approval of the PGFTU. The TUC should be at the centre and driving forward this sort of positive work and should be arguing against counterproductive boycotts of one side.

Ironically, a boycott would harm the very people it is ostensibly being carried out for. It would stop all economic and social engagement between Israelis and Palestinians – hurting many communities, workers and their families.

The Histadrut, which is being targeted by some British trade unions, has an impressive history of democratic, free trade unionism and does exemplary work for its members. Last year alone it negotiated a five per cent wage rise for all public sector workers and pension cover for the entire private sector workforce; something which the majority of trade unions across the world could only dream of. Its leader, Ofer Eini, provides vocal support for the peace talks and is critical of the slow nature of progress, which helps the Palestinian cause.

The ultimate irony is that in the very month when Israeli and Palestinian leaders meet for face-to-face talks, some British trade unionists suggest this is not in the best interests of the Palestinian people.

The reality is that the shape and form of a peace settlement presented to the Israeli and Palestinian peoples will involve compromises for all. Those plans need to be acceptable to the people on the ground, not organisations abroad. As one trade union leader put it, our policy should be, ‘Peace first – no taking of sides; never more extreme in the UK than trade unionists in both Israel and Palestine; and focused on cooperation, dialogue and resolution.’ Solidarity is the only solution.