Israel Denies Report Netanyahu Ordered Falklands Policy Shift

Israel has denied reports that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered diplomats to support Argentina’s push for negotiations over the Falkland Islands, following British sanctions on West Bank settlements. The Telegraph reported that Netanyahu allegedly directed Israeli diplomats to back UK-Argentina talks, but an Israeli Embassy spokesman, Alex Gandler, categorically denied the allegation, stating, “No such directive exists.”

The report cited remarks by Israel’s UN ambassador, Danny Danon, who called for direct negotiations between Britain and Argentina at a recent UN session. Danon acknowledged the significance of the issue for Argentines, emphasizing the need to consider historical, legal, and human factors in any progress.

Government sources linked the alleged diplomatic shift to Israel’s close relationship with Argentine President Javier Milei and the deterioration of ties with London. The British sanctions on West Bank settlements last month prompted Israeli measures against the British consulate in Jerusalem, including the expulsion of most of its staff, according to the newspaper.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir had previously urged Netanyahu to recognize Argentine sovereignty over the Falklands and impose sanctions on Britain, following the announcement of the British settlement sanctions. This reflects a broader tension between Israel and the UK over settlement policies.

Britain maintains that sovereignty over the Falkland Islands cannot be discussed without the consent of the islanders. A 2013 referendum saw 99.8% of voters choose to remain a British overseas territory. The UK and Argentina fought a war over the islands in 1982 after Argentine forces invaded.

The situation underscores the complex diplomatic landscape involving Israel, Argentina, and the UK, with each party navigating historical grievances and contemporary geopolitical pressures. The Falkland Islands, known as Islas Malvinas in Argentina, remain a point of contention, with the British government insisting on the islanders’ right to self-determination.

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