Keir Starmer accused of appeasing 'jihadist terrorists' by Netanyahu

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed Sir Keir Starmer's decision to recognise a Palestinian state if Tel Aviv does not take steps to end the war in Gaza "rewards Hamas's monstrous terrorism".

In a statement on social media site X, Mr Netanyahu said: "Starmer rewards Hamas's monstrous terrorism and punishes its victims. A jihadist state on Israel's border today will threaten Britain tomorrow. Appeasement towards jihadist terrorists always fails. It will fail you, too. It will not happen."

The statement came hours after Sir Keir's call with Mr Netanyahu where he shared his plans for the UK to recognise Palestine as a state.

A Downing Street spokeswoman says Sir Keir began the call earlier today by repeating his support for Israel, calling for the remaining Israeli hostages to be released by Hamas, and condemning the terror group's attack on October 7, 2023.

But he said the situation in Gaza had become "intolerable" and he urged Mr Netanyahu to "take immediate action to lift all restrictions on aid access and get those suffering in Gaza the food they need".

As part of a flurry of phonecalls on Tuesday, Sir Keir spoke with Mahmoud Abbas, president of the Palestinian Authority.

Giving a readout of their call, a Downing Street spokeswoman said: "The leaders condemned in the strongest terms the appalling suffering unfolding in Gaza, and agreed on the urgent need for a ceasefire and for the immediate and unrestricted delivery of aid.

"They also reiterated that Hamas must release all remaining hostages, commit to disarmament and accept that they will play no role in the governance of Gaza, in order to pave the way for a solution which provides peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians.

"The president welcomed the Prime Minister's commitment today to recognise the state of Palestine before UNGA (UN General Assembly) in September unless Israel changes its course, as part of a wider plan for peace in the region being pursued together with partners.

"They agreed to speak again soon."