The UK government has called for a unified approach to Israel policy after US vice presidential candidate JD Vance launched a blistering attack on Benjamin Netanyahu. Speaking at a campaign event in Pennsylvania, Vance accused the Israeli prime minister of making “strategic mistakes” that have isolated the country and undermined peace efforts. “Netanyahu’s leadership has been a disaster for Israel and the region,” Vance said.
“His refusal to engage seriously with the Palestinian Authority has fuelled extremism and destabilised the West Bank.” The comments, which broke with the traditional US posture of unquestioning support for Israeli leadership, sent shockwaves through diplomatic circles. In London, the Foreign Office responded cautiously.
A spokesperson said: “We do not comment on US election campaigns. However, the UK’s position remains consistent: we support a negotiated two-state solution and believe all parties should avoid inflammatory rhetoric. We urge our allies to work together for peace.
” The row has exposed deep divisions within the transatlantic alliance. While the Biden administration has maintained close ties with Netanyahu’s government, the UK has increasingly distanced itself. Labour leader Keir Starmer has faced criticism from his own party for failing to condemn Israeli settlement expansion.
Meanwhile, British campaign groups have welcomed Vance’s remarks. “It takes courage to speak truth to power,” said Sarah Jones of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign. “Netanyahu’s government is responsible for war crimes and the UK must stop its complicity.
” The question now is whether the UK will follow America’s lead if Vance wins the White House. With a general election looming, the issue is likely to feature prominently. As one Whitehall insider put it: “This is a watershed moment.
The old certainties are crumbling. The British government must decide whose side it is on: the settlers or the peacemakers.
