UK Slams Netanyahu for 'Islamic Republic' Remark
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The British government has strongly criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for a remark comparing the UK to an "Islamic republic."
- Britain's Foreign Office stated it raised the issue directly with Jerusalem, calling the comment "completely unacceptable."
- An Israeli spokesperson attempted to downplay the remark, suggesting Netanyahu was quoting a previous statement by Lord Vance.
The British government has issued a sharp rebuke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, condemning a recent comment in which he reportedly referred to the United Kingdom as an "Islamic republic." The British Foreign Office confirmed it had raised the matter directly with the Israeli government in Jerusalem, labeling the remark as "completely unacceptable."
Sources indicate that the controversial statement was made in a context that has drawn significant criticism from London. The British government's firm response underscores the diplomatic sensitivity surrounding such characterizations, particularly between allied nations.
In an effort to mitigate the diplomatic fallout, an Israeli spokesperson sought to contextualize Netanyahu's remark. The spokesperson suggested that the Prime Minister was merely quoting a statement previously made by Lord Vance, implying the comment was not an original expression of his own views. This explanation, however, has done little to quell the strong disapproval from the British side.
Completely unacceptable
Originally published by Times of Israel in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.