Nigel Farage Vows to Mend UK-Israel Ties if Elected

Nigel Farage, leader of the UK's Reform UK party, pledged on Thursday to repair what he described as damage to British-Israeli relations caused by the Labour government. In an interview with The Jerusalem Post, Farage reiterated his "strong support for Israel" following a phone call with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar.

Farage characterized his conversation with Saar as "very productive" and advocated for strengthening the partnership between the two nations, particularly in trade, security, technology, and innovation. "I made it clear that a Reform government would undo the damage done to this important relationship by Labour and rebuild it on the basis of common interests and mutual respect," he stated.

The two officials also discussed the Falkland Islands, which are claimed by Argentina but administered by the UK. Farage urged Israel to maintain a stance that respects British sovereignty and security interests. "For the UK, the security of the Falkland Islanders and the defense of our sovereign territory are paramount," he asserted.

This exchange follows a controversial statement by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who called on Israel to recognize the Falklands as "Argentine territory under occupation." Ben-Gvir's remarks were reportedly in response to British sanctions imposed on Israeli communities in Judea and Samaria.