Netanyahu, Western Leaders Clash Over Gaza Actions

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has condemned the leaders of France, the UK, and Canada for their joint call to end Israel's military operation in Gaza and for improved humanitarian aid access, accusing them of siding with Hamas and undermining Israel's security. The leaders' joint statement warned of 'concrete actions' if Israel does not change its approach, a threat Israel has labeled slanderous and damaging. Ireland's Tánaiste Simon Harris has also accused Israel of engaging in 'genocidal activity' and war crimes in Gaza, claiming Israel seeks the forcible removal of Palestinians and uses humanitarian aid as a political tool. Harris has called for bans on trade with Israeli settlements and supported revisiting the EU-Israel Association Agreement amid the crisis. The conflict began with a Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, and continues to cause sharp divisions among Western allies. Tensions persist as international criticism and calls for accountability grow.