Netanyahu Describes the British Government as "Rogue" After Its Actions Against Settler Terrorism

London - Afaq News - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu escalated his attack on the British government, following the measures taken by London against Israeli settlements and settler violence in the West Bank, accusing the Labour Party government of following a policy he described as 'appeasement of Islamic forces,' coinciding with his remarks about thwarting an alleged Iranian plot targeting the British Royal Air Force base in Fairford.

In an interview with the British newspaper 'Daily Mail', Netanyahu claimed that Israeli intelligence warned British authorities of a plot believed to be backed by Iran to target the Fairford base, asserting that the Israeli warning contributed to thwarting the attack, and noting that Israel had previously provided Britain with security information.

Netanyahu used this issue as an entry point to attack British policy towards Israel, particularly the measures taken by London in response to the escalating violence of settlers and the expansion of settlements in the West Bank.

In June, Britain imposed sanctions on networks and individuals who fund, support, or carry out acts of violence against Palestinians in the West Bank, which included asset freezes and travel restrictions. It also warned British companies against engaging in economic and financial activities in Israeli settlements.

In September, London also announced its intention to impose restrictions on the import of goods produced in Israeli settlements in the West Bank, in a move the British government said was in response to the accelerating settlement expansion and increasing violence against Palestinians.

Britain has also maintained the suspension of more than 30 licenses for the export of weapons that could be used by the Israeli army in Gaza, and announced its rejection of requests to export weapons or equipment that could significantly contribute to the continuation of the occupation.

These measures come amid a rise in terrorism and crimes by settlers against Palestinians, including assaults on villages and properties, arson, and displacement. The British government has stated that the increase in these assaults is often accompanied by a lack of accountability, calling on Israel to protect Palestinians and pursue the terrorist settlers.

In contrast, Netanyahu's critics believe that his focus on Iranian security threats and attacks on the British government comes at a time when Israel is facing increasing international criticism due to settlement policies, settler violence, and military operations in Palestinian territories.

Netanyahu stated that the current British policy represents, in his view, appeasement of Israel's enemies, warning that Britain may lose control over its borders and expressing regret over the deterioration of relations between the two countries.