Netanyahu Accuses Starmer of Backing Hamas: Diplomatic Firestorm Rocks UK Politics
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| Benjamin Netanyahu accuses UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer of supporting Hamas amid Gaza conflict" |
Published: May 23, 2025
Introduction
In a dramatic escalation of Middle East tensions, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer of siding with Hamas, following the UK's suspension of arms exports to Israel and its support for the International Criminal Court (ICC)'s arrest warrants against Israeli leaders. This accusation has ignited a political firestorm, straining historically strong UK-Israel relations and raising questions about the UK's evolving foreign policy in the Gaza conflict.
Background: The ICC Arrest Warrants
The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in late 2024, alleging war crimes and crimes against humanity, including the use of starvation as a method of warfare and targeting of civilians during Israeli military operations in Gaza. The UK, under Starmer’s leadership, responded by supporting the ICC's independence. Source
UK's Suspension of Arms Exports to Israel
The UK government suspended about 30 arms export licenses to Israel, including equipment used in military operations in Gaza. Critics argue this reflects the UK's concern over potential humanitarian law violations. Netanyahu responded, claiming the move undermines Israel’s right to self-defense and sends the wrong signal to Hamas. Source
Netanyahu's Accusations Against Starmer
Netanyahu accused Starmer of siding with Hamas by backing actions that restrict Israel’s military response. He called the UK's stance "absurd" and damaging to efforts to fight extremism. Source
Starmer's Response
Keir Starmer defended the UK's position, reaffirming support for Israel’s right to self-defense but insisting all military actions must comply with international law. He reiterated support for a two-state solution and criticized Netanyahu’s rejection of Palestinian statehood. Source
International Reaction
Global leaders offered mixed reactions. Some European allies supported the UK's actions, while the U.S. reiterated backing for Israel’s military operations. Netanyahu also accused leaders like Macron of taking an anti-Israel stance. Two Israeli embassy staff were shot in Washington, which Netanyahu linked to anti-Semitic incitement. Source
The Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The situation in Gaza continues to worsen. At least 29 civilians have died from starvation, and over 9,000 children face malnutrition. Aid groups warn of operational shutdowns due to fuel shortages. This worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza has increased global pressure on all parties to reach a ceasefire. Source
Implications for UK-Israel Relations
This diplomatic standoff may have lasting effects on UK-Israel relations. The UK has been a key ally to Israel, and tensions could impact future cooperation in areas such as defense, trade, and technology. Analysts say Starmer's foreign policy represents a new era of diplomacy grounded in human rights.
Conclusion
The accusation that Starmer is siding with Hamas illustrates the fragility of current global alliances. As the humanitarian toll in Gaza escalates, the need for balanced diplomacy and humanitarian action becomes urgent. The world watches closely as the UK redefines its stance in one of the most polarizing conflicts in modern history.
Keywords Used
Benjamin Netanyahu, Keir Starmer, Hamas, Gaza conflict, UK-Israel relations, International Criminal Court, ICC arrest warrants, UK arms exports to Israel, Israeli military operations, Palestinian statehood, War crimes accusations, Humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Two-state solution, Israel’s right to self-defense, UK foreign policy, Starmer’s stance on Gaza, Netanyahu’s criticism of the UK, Middle East tensions, Western reaction to Israel-Hamas war, International response to Gaza war
