In a stunning diplomatic rift, Labour’s leadership has come out swinging after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer of “siding with Hamas” in the aftermath of a tragic shooting near the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, DC. The accusation, unprecedented in its directness, has thrown the UK-Israel relationship into fresh turmoil, prompting swift rebuttals from Downing Street and a fiery defense of Labour’s stance on the Israel-Gaza conflict.
This latest incident adds to an already charged atmosphere surrounding global responses to the Gaza war, raising serious questions about how Western nations navigate their positions between support for Israel and humanitarian advocacy for Palestinians.
The Washington DC Shooting: A Tragic Catalyst
On May 21, 2025, the world was rocked by a targeted shooting outside Washington, DC’s Capital Jewish Museum, resulting in the deaths of two Israeli embassy staffers. Witnesses reported the assailant, identified as Elias Rodriguez, shouted “Free Palestine” as he opened fire. The FBI has categorized the incident as a hate-fueled antisemitic attack, and Rodriguez now faces federal charges for murder and hate crimes.
The attack sent shockwaves through diplomatic communities and sparked a fresh wave of international condemnation, with leaders across the globe denouncing the violence and reaffirming commitments to fight antisemitism.
Netanyahu’s Accusation: A Diplomatic Flashpoint
In a strongly worded video message, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blamed Western leaders, including Keir Starmer, for “emboldening Hamas.” Netanyahu claimed that by calling for ceasefires and advocating for increased humanitarian aid into Gaza, leaders were “siding with terrorists” and undermining Israel’s fight against extremism.
His comments specifically referenced joint calls made by the UK, France, and Canada, labeling them as “naïve at best and dangerous at worst.” He went as far as to accuse these nations of enabling attacks on Jewish people by “turning their backs” on Israel in its time of need.
Labour’s Response: Steadfast and Unapologetic
The Labour government wasted no time responding. While refusing to be drawn into a war of words with Netanyahu, Prime Minister Starmer stood firm in his condemnation of the Washington attack, describing it as a “despicable act of antisemitic violence.” A spokesperson from Downing Street reiterated the UK’s unequivocal support for Israel’s right to defend itself while also emphasizing the importance of international law and the urgent need to protect innocent lives in Gaza.
Labour sources called Netanyahu’s remarks “deeply regrettable” and accused him of “politicizing a tragedy to deflect criticism of his own government’s actions in Gaza.”
The Gaza Conflict: A Worsening Humanitarian Crisis
The backdrop to this diplomatic row is the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. With hundreds of thousands displaced and basic resources like food, water, and medicine dwindling, international pressure has mounted on Israel to ease its blockade and allow for more robust humanitarian aid deliveries.
Labour, along with other Western powers, has been pushing for an immediate ceasefire to facilitate aid and negotiations. Starmer’s government has maintained that peace can only be achieved through diplomacy, not escalation, and has called on Israel to exercise restraint and uphold international humanitarian obligations.
Domestic Reactions: Unity and Divides
Reactions within the UK have been varied. Labour’s stance has garnered support from progressive voices, humanitarian organizations, and sections of the Muslim community. However, it has also faced criticism from pro-Israel groups and Conservative MPs who accuse Starmer of wavering on support for Israel.
The Jewish community in the UK remains divided, with some welcoming the government’s strong stand against antisemitism while others worry that criticism of Israeli policy may embolden anti-Jewish sentiment.
Broader Geopolitical Implications
This episode has broader implications for UK foreign policy and its relationships in the Middle East. Analysts suggest that while Labour seeks a more balanced, principled approach, tensions with Israel could impact security cooperation, trade negotiations, and international perception of the UK’s role in global diplomacy.
It also sets a precedent for how the UK will handle future criticisms from key allies when its humanitarian principles clash with realpolitik.
Conclusion: Navigating a Diplomatic Tightrope
As Labour defends its stance in the face of Netanyahu’s scathing accusations, the UK finds itself at a pivotal crossroads. The challenge is not just about responding to inflammatory rhetoric but shaping a foreign policy that reflects both moral responsibility and strategic pragmatism.
Keir Starmer’s government appears committed to walking this diplomatic tightrope—supporting Israel’s right to security while also advocating for the protection of Palestinian civilians and upholding international law. Whether this balance can be maintained without further diplomatic fallout remains to be seen.
FAQs
1. Why did Benjamin Netanyahu accuse Keir Starmer of siding with Hamas?
Netanyahu criticized Western leaders for calling for a Gaza ceasefire and humanitarian aid, claiming these actions empower Hamas and undermine Israel’s defense.
2. How did the UK government respond to Netanyahu’s accusation?
The UK reaffirmed its condemnation of the Washington attack, emphasized support for Israel’s self-defense, and reiterated its commitment to international humanitarian law.
3. What is Labour’s stance on the Israel-Gaza conflict?
Labour supports Israel’s right to security but also advocates for a ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid to protect Palestinian civilians.
4. What happened in the Washington DC shooting?
Two Israeli embassy staffers were killed in an antisemitic attack outside the Capital Jewish Museum, prompting global condemnation and renewed calls for unity against hate.
5. Will this impact UK-Israel relations?
Potentially, yes. The fallout could affect diplomatic ties, security cooperation, and the UK’s influence in Middle Eastern peace efforts.
