Netanyahu Claims Israel Warned UK of Iran-Backed Attack Before Sanctions

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed in an interview with Fox News that Israel had provided the United Kingdom with intelligence about an impending Iranian-backed terror attack on British soil. Netanyahu criticized the UK government, stating, "We gave the British the intelligence that an attack was about to happen, and it was an Iranian-backed attack, and the very next day they imposed sanctions on us. On us! So it's just crazy." He further described the UK's actions as a "surrender" to an "Islamist-Marxist alliance" that is "very dangerous for the future of the West."

The revelations come amid heightened diplomatic tensions between Jerusalem and London. The UK recently confirmed strong indications of Iranian involvement in a thwarted attack near RAF Fairford, a base used by both British and American forces. This incident led to the arrest of five men in their 20s from London on suspicion of explosives offenses and preparing terrorist acts, though they were later released on bail.

In parallel, the UK has significantly increased its arms embargo on Israel, suspending or refusing over 80 defense export licenses, nearly triple the number restricted in September 2024. These measures follow earlier actions by British Foreign Secretary David Miliband, who banned products from Israeli settlements and sanctioned their financiers. In response, Israel's Foreign Minister Gidon Saar decided to close the British Consulate in Jerusalem.

Netanyahu's comments suggest a perceived disconnect between the UK's security concerns regarding Iran and its policy towards Israel, which he views as a dangerous capitulation.