Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has launched a scathing attack on Western leaders of the UK, France, and Canada, accusing them of being on “the wrong side of history” and effectively supporting Hamas’s continued rule in Gaza. In a video statement, Netanyahu criticized Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, President Emmanuel Macron, and Prime Minister Mark Carney for condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza as “disproportionate” and describing the humanitarian situation as “intolerable.”
“You’ve emboldened the forces of terror,” Israeli Minister Amichai Chikli said, echoing Netanyahu’s sentiments. Netanyahu himself stated, “I say to President Macron, Prime Minister Carney and Prime Minister Starmer, when mass murderers, rapists, baby killers and kidnappers thank you, you’re on the wrong side of justice. You’re on the wrong side of humanity, and you’re on the wrong side of history.”
The criticism comes after the three countries denounced a shooting attack on Israeli embassy staff in Washington and expressed strong support for Israel following the deadly Hamas-led attacks 19 months ago. However, they also condemned Israel’s expansion of the Gaza war, prompting Netanyahu’s rebuke.
Divided Opinions
Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert weighed in on the debate, describing the current Israeli administration as a “gang of thugs” in an interview with the BBC World Service’s Newshour programme. “This is nonsense, they are a group of thugs that are running the state of Israel these days and the head of the gang is Netanyahu – this is a gang of thugs,” Olmert said. “Of course they are criticising me, they are defaming me, I accept it, and it will not stop me from criticising and opposing these atrocious policies.”
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in significant loss of life, with at least 53,762 people, including 16,500 children, killed in Gaza since Israel launched a military campaign in response to Hamas’s cross-border attack on October 7, 2023. The situation has sparked intense debate and criticism of Israel’s actions, with many calling for a ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza.