Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sharply criticized the leaders of the United Kingdom, France, and Canada after they threatened to impose targeted sanctions if Israel does not halt its renewed military offensive in Gaza and ease restrictions on humanitarian aid.
In a series of statements posted on social media late Monday, Netanyahu accused the three Western allies of “offering a huge prize” to Hamas, the Palestinian group controlling Gaza, by opposing Israel’s ongoing military campaign. He argued that calls to end the offensive and demands for the establishment of a Palestinian state would only reward Hamas for its attack on Israel last October, which left more than 1,200 Israelis dead and hundreds taken hostage.
Netanyahu declared, “By demanding that Israel end an existential defensive war before Hamas terrorists are eliminated on our borders, and by demanding the establishment of a Palestinian state, leaders in London, Ottawa, and Paris are placing a huge reward for the October 7 annihilation attack on Israel and inviting further atrocities.” He added, “Israel will continue to defend itself by just means—until complete victory is achieved.”
The strong response from Netanyahu came after the leaders of the UK, France, and Canada issued a joint statement condemning Israel’s latest military escalation in Gaza as “entirely disproportionate.” The statement warned that if Israel did not stop its offensive and lift restrictions on aid, the three countries would consider “concrete actions,” including targeted sanctions. The Western leaders also expressed opposition to the expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank and threatened further sanctions if such activities continued.
The diplomatic dispute comes as Israel intensifies its military operations in Gaza, particularly in the city of Khan Younis, with reports of heavy bombardment and rising casualties. International concern has grown over the humanitarian situation in Gaza, with the United Nations warning of the risk of famine and thousands of civilians, including children, at risk due to shortages of food and medical supplies.
Despite mounting international pressure, Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s conditions for ending the war: the return of all hostages, the disarmament of Hamas, the exile of its leaders, and the demilitarization of Gaza. “No country can expect less—and certainly not Israel,” he stated.
The confrontation marks a significant rift between Israel and three of its closest Western allies, who had previously supported Israel’s right to self-defense but are now voicing strong opposition to the scale and conduct of its military campaign in Gaza. The leaders of the UK, France, and Canada have also reaffirmed their support for a two-state solution as the path to lasting peace in the region.
