Netanyahu Accuses World Leaders of Aiding Hamas

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sharply criticized the leaders of France, the United Kingdom, and Canada, accusing them of emboldening Hamas and effectively supporting its continued existence. The rebuke follows the fatal shooting of two Israeli embassy staff – Yaron Lischinsky, 30, and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, 26 – in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday night. The pair were killed after attending an event hosted by the American Jewish Committee at the Capital Jewish Museum. Elias Rodriguez, 31, of Chicago, has been charged with first-degree murder, allegedly stating at the scene that he acted “for Gaza” and in support of “Free Palestine.”

Netanyahu, in a video statement, asserted that Hamas “want to destroy the Jewish state” and accused Macron, Starmer, and Carney of failing to recognize this “simple truth.” He specifically referenced a joint statement issued by the three leaders on May 19, calling for an end to Israel’s military operations in Gaza. Netanyahu claims this demand, coupled with implied threats of sanctions against Israel rather than Hamas, signals support for the terrorist organization.

“When mass murderers, rapists, baby killers, and kidnappers thank you, you’re on the wrong side of justice, you’re on the wrong side of humanity, and you’re on the wrong side of history,” Netanyahu declared.

The joint statement from Macron, Starmer, and Carney highlighted the “intolerable” level of human suffering in Gaza and criticized Israel’s limited allowance of humanitarian aid. They urged the Israeli government to halt military operations and facilitate the entry of aid, including working with the U.N. to restore delivery systems. The leaders also called for the immediate release of hostages held by Hamas since the October 7th attacks.

Netanyahu’s strong words echo those of Israeli Foreign Affairs Minister Gideon Sa’ar, who linked the D.C. shooting to “antisemitic and anti-Israeli incitement” originating from European leaders.

The criticism comes amidst a worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. U.N. humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher warned on Tuesday that without increased aid, an estimated 14,000 babies could die within 48 hours. While some aid has been allowed into the region – 130 trucks on Friday and 100 the previous day – the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs states it remains “limited in quantity and nowhere near sufficient” to meet the needs of Gaza’s 2.1 million residents.

Responses from the criticized leaders have been swift. French Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Christophe Lemoine denounced Netanyahu’s remarks as “completely outrageous and unjustified,” reaffirming France’s condemnation of antisemitism. U.K. Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard stated Netanyahu’s assessment of the British position is “not correct,” emphasizing the U.K.’s support for Israel’s right to self-defense within international humanitarian law, while also stressing the need for aid to reach those suffering in Gaza.

This escalating diplomatic conflict underscores the deep divisions surrounding Israel’s military actions in Gaza and the complex challenge of balancing security concerns with humanitarian needs. While Israel understandably seeks to dismantle Hamas following the October 7th attacks, the international community’s growing concern over civilian casualties and the unfolding humanitarian disaster demands a more nuanced approach. Netanyahu’s accusations, while passionate, risk further isolating Israel and hindering efforts to find a sustainable solution to the conflict. A constructive dialogue, focused on de-escalation, humanitarian aid, and a long-term political solution, is urgently needed to prevent further tragedy and build a path towards lasting peace.