By Emmanuel Dominic 
Rift Over Gaza: Netanyahu Counters Starmer’s Stance
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sharply criticized UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer following recent statements and actions by the British government concerning Israel’s military offensive in Gaza. In an interview with the Daily Mail, Netanyahu described the UK’s suspension of arms export licenses to Israel as “misguided,” arguing that it sends a “horrible message” to Hamas. He emphasized that such actions undermine Israel’s right to self-defense and could embolden terrorist groups. Netanyahu also condemned the UK’s decision to drop its challenge to potential International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrants against Israeli leaders, labeling the move as “absurd” and detrimental to the fight against terrorism .
The UK’s position has drawn criticism from various quarters. Some have accused Starmer of exhibiting a pro-Israel bias, particularly in his refusal to support calls for a ceasefire and his statements that may downplay Palestinian suffering. In response, Netanyahu has framed Israel’s military actions as a “just war with just means,” asserting that the country is taking unprecedented measures to protect civilians and comply with international law. He likened Israel’s stand against Hamas to Britain’s historical fight against Nazi Germany, suggesting that history will judge Israel’s actions favorably.
The diplomatic exchange highlights the tensions between Israel and the UK over the ongoing conflict in Gaza, reflecting broader international divisions on how to address the crisis.
