Rishi Sunak’s Assurance
Rishi Sunak assured that the United Kingdom would support Israel in its “long war” against Hamas, as the leader of Hamas had called for such support.
Netanyahu’s Call for Continuous Support
Following a meeting with the British Prime Minister in Jerusalem, Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel stated that his nation would need “continuous support.”
The Ongoing Conflict and Its Impact
This comes as Israel prepares to launch a ground invasion into Gaza following the catastrophic Hamas attack that occurred on October 7th.
Rishi Sunak referred to the Palestinian militant group as “pure evil.”
“We stand by your side in solidarity and support your people,” he told reporters. “We want you to succeed as well.”
Mr. Sunak has arrived in Saudi Arabia to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, concluding a two-day visit to Middle Eastern capitals.
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Since Hamas launched its assault earlier this month, Israeli artillery and aircraft have been bombarding Gaza, resulting in over 1,400 casualties.
Israel has maintained a blockade on the cross-border transportation of petroleum, electricity, and water to Gaza.
According to Downing Street, Mr. Sunak and his Israeli counterpart spoke for two hours, with most of the time being without officials.
Mr. Netanyahu cautioned that Israel’s struggle against Hamas would be fraught with “difficulties” and “ups and downs” and would require “continued support” from its allies.
Mr. Sunak, speaking alongside him, assured reporters that the United Kingdom “absolutely” supports Israel’s “right to defend itself in accordance with international law.”
“I know that you are taking every precaution to avoid harming civilians, in stark contrast to the terrorists of Hamas,” he added.
“In the darkest hour,” borrowing a phrase from the UK leader during World War II, Sir Winston Churchill, Benjamin Netanyahu referred to the Hamas attack.
Mr. Sunak reiterated the sentiment, stating, “As your friend, I am honored to stand here with you during the darkest hour of Israel.”
International Involvement and Political Considerations
His visit closely follows that of US President Biden, as international leaders intensify their efforts to prevent the conflict from escalating further.
Mr. Biden stated that Israel had been “gravely victimized” and was therefore justified in retaliating against Hamas.
However, he advised Israelis against becoming “consumed” by anger and urged them to avoid repeating the “mistakes” made by an “enraged” United States in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks.
Mr. Netanyahu’s remarks lacked subtlety.
In addition to labeling Hamas as the “new Nazis,” the “new ISIS,” and “monstrous barbarians,” the Israeli Prime Minister characterized the conflict as a struggle between Western civilization and the Iran-led “axis of evil.”
He also emphasized the need for ongoing assistance and warned against a protracted conflict, suggesting that Western governments should not be overly alarmed if Israel responds with greater force.
From a political standpoint, the UK Prime Minister considered it important to project an image of solidarity with Israel.
However, his speech contained some subtleties; he commended Israel to minimize civilian casualties, albeit in a complimentary manner, saying he “knew” Israel would do this in contrast to Hamas.
He emphasized the importance of international law and the value of humanitarian aid, which was a different message compared to the cautionary tone conveyed by the US President.
By hosting a succession of Western leaders in Israel, Rishi Sunak indirectly warned Iran about the consequences of a broader regional conflict.
Aid to Gaza and the Ceasefire Debate
Additionally, Mr. Sunak expressed gratitude for Israel’s Wednesday declaration that it would not obstruct Egyptian aid from reaching southern Gaza.
However, Israel’s agreement only covered food, water, and medical supplies and did not extend to petroleum or other essential provisions.
Israel also stated that it would block aid passage through its territory until Hamas releases the detainees captured during its attack earlier this month.
No. 10 reported after an earlier meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog that Mr. Sunak had “higher hopes” for “further progress” in the delivery of aid to Gaza.
Mr. Sunak refused to support calls for a ceasefire to protect civilians made by the Scottish National Party and some Labour MPs, insisting that Israel has the right to “act against terrorism.”
However, he told broadcasters that preventing the conflict from escalating regionally was crucial.
On Wednesday, Foreign Secretary James Cleverly informed members of parliament that while calls for ceasefires were “fine and good,” he had not seen any indication that Hamas would adhere to one.
Mr. Cleverly met with his Egyptian colleague earlier on his diplomatic visit. He also plans to travel to Turkey and Qatar.
