Thu Sep 19 07:07:50 UTC 2024: ## Netanyahu Slams UK Arms Suspension and ICC Stance as “Misguided”

**LONDON** – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused the UK government of sending a “horrible message” to Hamas following a partial suspension of arms exports to Israel earlier this month. In a scathing interview with the Daily Mail, Netanyahu criticized the decision, calling it “misguided” and claiming it undermines Israel’s right to defend itself against a “genocidal terrorist organization.”

Netanyahu specifically targeted the UK government’s suspension of 30 out of 350 arms export licenses, citing concerns about the potential use of British-manufactured weapons in breaches of international law, particularly regarding the detention of Palestinian prisoners. The Israeli PM argued that Israel is “waging a just war with just means” and taking “unprecedented measures” to protect civilians.

He also condemned the UK government’s decision to drop its challenge to arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) against Israel, calling the ICC allegations “preposterous.”

“These misguided decisions will not change Israel’s determination to defeat Hamas,” Netanyahu declared. He further asserted that the UK’s decision to suspend arms sales “undermines our ability to exercise that right” to defend itself against Hamas.

The UK government, under Labour leader Keir Starmer, has defended its actions, stating that the arms export suspension was a “legal decision” based on a review of Israel’s recent conduct in the Gaza conflict. Middle East minister Hamish Falconer acknowledged the timing of the announcement, coinciding with the funeral of murdered hostages in Jerusalem, was “painful.”

Netanyahu’s accusations mark a significant escalation of tensions between Israel and the UK following the recent conflict in Gaza. The UK government’s decision to partially suspend arms exports has been criticized by some within the Jewish community, who see it as a sign of diminished support for Israel. However, the government insists that its actions are based on a commitment to upholding international law and are not intended as a condemnation of Israel’s right to defend itself.

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