Wed Sep 25 07:37:27 UTC 2024: ## Starmer Rejects Netanyahu’s Accusations of Undermining Israel’s Security

**LONDON -** UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has rejected accusations from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that Britain undermined Israel’s security by blocking some arms exports to Tel Aviv. Starmer maintains that the UK was merely complying with international and domestic law.

Netanyahu had criticized the UK’s decision, stating that it sent a “horrible message” to Hamas. However, Starmer insisted that the UK’s move was based on concerns that the exported arms could be used in violation of international law during Israel’s ongoing campaign against Hamas in Gaza.

“We had to comply with international law and our domestic law in relation to that,” Starmer said. “I’ve always been clear, I support Israel’s right to self-defense, I’ve been robust about that. But it’s got to be done in accordance with international law.”

Despite this disagreement, Starmer emphasized that the UK and Israel remain strong allies. He pointed to his government’s recent decisions to drop Britain’s opposition to the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant against Netanyahu and restore funding to UNRWA, the UN Palestinian refugee agency.

“We’re in contact with the Israeli government all the time,” Starmer added. “They’re an important ally and I have long respected and supported Israel’s right to self-defense.”

These comments come as the UK continues to urge British nationals in Lebanon to leave immediately due to widespread Israeli strikes targeting Hezbollah.

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