Israeli PM Netanyahu criticizes the UK, France, and Canada for halting arms sales over Gaza conflict, calling their actions hypocritical and unjustified. On May 19, 2025, the UK, France, and Canada issued a joint statement condemning Israel’s military actions in Gaza as “disproportionate” and warned of potential sanctions if the offensive did not cease. They demanded an immediate halt to hostilities and the unimpeded entry of humanitarian aid into the besieged enclave. The statement emphasized that the recent allowance of minimal aid by Israel was insufficient and could constitute a violation of international humanitarian law. Furthermore, the countries expressed concern over rhetoric from Israeli officials that could encourage the forced displacement of civilians and reiterated their opposition to the expansion of settlements in the West Bank.
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Netanyahu’s Defiant Response
In response, Prime Minister Netanyahu dismissed the criticisms as a “prize” for Hamas’s attacks on October 7, 2023. He asserted that Israel’s military campaign was a fight for survival and would continue until Hamas was disarmed and Gaza demilitarized. Netanyahu emphasized that the conflict would not end until all hostages were released and Hamas’s military capabilities were dismantled.
Escalation of Military Operations
Amid the international outcry, Israel intensified its military operations in Gaza. Netanyahu announced plans for Israel to take full control of the Gaza Strip, with the Israeli Defense Forces issuing evacuation orders for Khan Younis ahead of what was described as an “unprecedented attack.” The military campaign included airstrikes and ground operations, resulting in significant casualties and displacement. Despite allowing limited humanitarian aid into Gaza, international observers deemed the efforts grossly inadequate given the scale of the humanitarian crisis.
Reactions from France, the UK, and Canada
France: President Emmanuel Macron called for a halt to arms deliveries to Israel, citing the need to prevent further escalation and civilian casualties. Netanyahu condemned Macron’s stance, accusing him of hypocrisy and stating that Israel was fighting a multi-front war against groups backed by Iran. He argued that while Iran continued to arm its proxies, Western leaders were undermining Israel’s defense capabilities.
United Kingdom: The UK government, under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, suspended several arms export licenses to Israel, including those for fighter jets and drones. Netanyahu criticized the decision, stating that it sent mixed messages and undermined Israel’s right to self-defense. He emphasized that Israel was waging a just war and taking unprecedented measures to protect civilians.
Canada: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed deep concern over the rising death toll in Gaza, particularly the killing of women and children. He urged Israel to exercise maximum restraint. Netanyahu responded by asserting that Hamas, not Israel, was responsible for civilian casualties, accusing the group of using civilians as human shields and preventing their evacuation.
Humanitarian Crisis and International Pressure
The humanitarian situation in Gaza deteriorated rapidly, with reports of mass starvation and a significant death toll. Under mounting international pressure, Israel allowed a limited number of aid trucks into Gaza. However, United Nations officials described the aid as grossly insufficient, warning of an impending famine. Humanitarian organizations also criticized Israel’s proposed aid distribution system, citing concerns over neutrality and safety.
Conclusion
The escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas, coupled with the international community’s condemnation, has led to a complex and volatile situation. While Netanyahu remains steadfast in his military objectives, the criticisms from key allies like the UK, France, and Canada highlight the growing global concern over the humanitarian impact of the conflict. As the situation unfolds, the international community continues to grapple with balancing support for Israel’s security with the urgent need to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.