Netanyahu Criticizes France, UK, Canada Amid Gaza War Rift

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sharply criticized French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, accusing them of siding with Hamas and being "on the wrong side of history" for condemning Israel's military actions in Gaza and calling for humanitarian aid access. Netanyahu linked their joint statement demanding Israel stop the offensive and allow aid with endorsing Hamas' continued power and accused them of rewarding terrorists, particularly after the killing of two Israeli embassy staffers in Washington by a gunman shouting "Free, free Palestine." In response, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot denounced Netanyahu's allegations as slanderous and absurd, reaffirming France's unwavering commitment to Israel's security and opposition to Hamas, while emphasizing support for a two-state solution. French and British officials criticized Netanyahu's remarks for escalating tensions and insisted on de-escalation and peace efforts. The dispute highlights a growing rift between Israel and Western countries over the Gaza conflict and the path towards Palestinian statehood. Israel’s foreign minister Gideon Sa’ar also linked the embassy killings to European leaders’ stance, intensifying the diplomatic strain.