Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu referred to the United Kingdom as the ‘Islamic Republic of Britain’ and stated that the country was the first nuclear-armed Islamic republic during an interview with Israeli Army Radio.
Netanyahu’s remark was made during a discussion of writings by journalist Randolph Churchill. During the conversation, the host asked the prime minister if he was singling out Great Britain from other European countries. Netanyahu responded affirmatively, characterizing Britain as the first nuclear-armed ‘Islamic republic’.
The prime minister’s statement drew criticism from his political opponents within Israel. Avi Dabush, a Knesset candidate for the Democrats party, accused Netanyahu of mocking one of the country’s key allies at a time when Israel’s international isolation is growing, calling his words a ‘diplomatic failure’.
Relations between London and Tel Aviv remain strained
Relations between Great Britain and Israel have strained in recent months, particularly following the accession to power of a government led by Andy Burnham.
The British government previously toughened its stance on Israel’s military operations in Gaza. London announced its intention to exert pressure on Israel, including the application of possible sanctions.
Similar statements regarding Great Britain have previously been made by U.S. politicians. During the 2024 presidential campaign, U.S. Vice President JD Vance stated that Great Britain could become the first ‘truly Islamist country’ with nuclear weapons.
The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office and the UK Foreign Office have not yet provided official comments regarding Netanyahu’s statements.
Source: theguardian.com
