Netanyahu mocks UK as ‘Islamic Republic of Britain’ in podcast remarks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made controversial remarks during a podcast appearance, calling Britain the "Islamic Republic of Britain," a comment likely to provoke reactions in London. The Labour government in Britain, led by Andy Burnham, has a history of criticizing Israel, yet the United Kingdom remains a crucial international ally for Israel, with extensive ties in various sectors.

During a podcast hosted by Avi Harush, Netanyahu referenced Randolph Churchill, the journalist and grandson of former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill. Churchill had previously covered the Six-Day War with a perspective seen as favorable to Israel. Netanyahu declared, "Go find that in Britain today, in what is called the Islamic Republic of Britain.

Go find it." When questioned about his belief that similar sentiments had spread across Europe, Netanyahu referenced a comment made by U.S. Vice President JD Vance two years prior, stating, "Someone said the first Islamic republic with nuclear weapons will be the Islamic Republic of Britain. We are making sure there won't be another one here, in Iran."

The statement sparked criticism from Avi Dabush, a member of Israel's Democratic party list, who called Netanyahu's comments irresponsible, given his position as prime minister and his role as a member of the Security Council, which holds six times the voting power compared to that of Israel.