Knesset Speaker Ohana Criticizes UK Sanctions, Calls US Israel's True Ally

Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana has strongly criticized the British government's recent sanctions against businesses in the West Bank, asserting that these measures target the "settlements themselves and the goods coming from there." Ohana dismissed reports of a warning given to Prime Minister Netanyahu by the UAE, attributing the leak to a figure named Dahlan. He emphasized that Israel would continue to act for the security of its citizens, even if it draws international criticism. "We will continue to fight for the safety and security of the citizens of Israel even if it leads to condemnations, even harsh ones, from some countries in the world," Ohana stated. He further clarified Israel's key alliance, saying, "Fortunately, our closest ally is not 'Londonistan' but the United States of America."

When questioned about whether his remarks could justify violence by Jews in the West Bank, Ohana condemned the actions of a "small group that does not represent the settlement enterprise." He also addressed the potential political impact of Ofer Winter's new party, warning that it could jeopardize the right-wing bloc by failing to pass the electoral threshold and thus waste votes. Ohana urged Winter to withdraw from the race, stating, "He needs to withdraw, he is endangering the right-wing bloc, if he wants Netanyahu to be prime minister then he should withdraw."

Responding to a question about recent polls showing the "Yisrael" party ahead of the Likud, Ohana expressed skepticism about mainstream poll accuracy, recalling that polls have historically underestimated the Likud, which has remained the ruling party for many years.