CliffNotes
- Netanyahu accuses Starmer and Macron of siding with Hamas
- It comes after UK, France and Canada criticised Israel’s actions in Gaza
- A day after the critiscm, two Israelis were shot dead in Washington
Netanyahu accuses Starmer and Macron of siding with Hamas
What Happened
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has launched a fierce attack on Sir Keir Starmer, along with the leaders of France and Canada, accusing them of effectively siding with Hamas by criticising Israel’s actions in Gaza.
In a strongly worded statement, Netanyahu claimed that by condemning Israel’s military offensive and restrictions on aid to Gaza, these leaders were supporting what he described as “mass murderers, rapists, baby killers and kidnappers.” He said their stance implied a desire to see Hamas remain in power.
The comments followed joint criticism from the UK, France and Canada earlier in the week, where the three countries condemned the escalation of Israel’s military campaign and the severe humanitarian restrictions in Gaza. They also warned of potential “concrete actions” if the situation didn’t improve.
Netanyahu’s remarks came as he reacted to the killing of two Israeli embassy staff in Washington, using the moment to accuse allied leaders of failing to support Israel’s security and survival.
“I say to President Macron, Prime Minister Carney and Prime Minister Starmer – when mass murderers thank you, you are on the wrong side of justice, the wrong side of humanity, and the wrong side of history.”
What Next
Downing Street has not issued a direct response to Netanyahu’s comments, but pointed to Sir Keir Starmer’s earlier condemnation of the embassy attack and his broader stance against antisemitism, which he called “an evil we must stamp out”.
In recent days, Starmer had expressed deep concern about the humanitarian situation in Gaza, calling it “intolerable”. He also criticised Israel’s decision to allow only a limited amount of aid into the region, describing the move as “utterly inadequate”.
The comments from Netanyahu have further strained diplomatic ties between Israel and several Western allies, as global leaders grapple with balancing support for Israel’s security with the urgent need to protect civilian lives in Gaza.
Israeli Minister Amichai Chikli also joined the criticism, accusing Starmer and others of emboldening terror through their remarks.
The situation remains tense, with ongoing international pressure on Israel to increase humanitarian access and reduce civilian suffering, while Israeli leaders insist their campaign is vital for national defence and the defeat of Hamas.