UK Report: Netanyahu Directed Diplomats to Back Argentina on Falklands Dispute

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has instructed Israeli diplomats to support Argentina in its dispute over the Falkland Islands, according to a report by the British newspaper The Telegraph. The directive reportedly calls for supporting direct negotiations on the future of the South Atlantic islands and acknowledging Argentina's historical ties to them. This move has been linked to Netanyahu's close relationship with Argentine President Javier Milei and a decision by British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband to impose economic sanctions on settlements. The reported steps do not constitute official recognition of Argentine sovereignty over the islands. However, Israeli support for talks would be a diplomatic achievement for Buenos Aires and could draw Israel into a political conflict, as the very discussion of sovereignty is a contentious issue.

Alex Gandler, a spokesperson for the Israeli Embassy in London, denied the report, stating that no such directive was issued. The Falkland Islands, located approximately 500 kilometers from Argentina's coast and 13,000 kilometers from Britain, are inhabited by thousands of residents living in a British Overseas Territory. The islands' economy relies on fishing, agriculture, and tourism, but significant untapped oil reserves have turned the distant conflict into a tangible Israeli concern.

In September, President Milei announced measures against companies exploiting the Falklands' natural resources without Buenos Aires' approval and plans to establish a military base in southern Argentina. The Argentine government also declared its intention to file criminal complaints against oil and gas companies operating in the Falklands, including Israeli firms. Israeli oil company Navitas holds a 65% stake in the offshore oil project "Sea Lion," with its British partner Rockhopper holding the remainder. Production is anticipated to commence in 2028, according to Reuters. The companies maintain they are operating under valid licenses granted by the island's government and supported by the UK.

Argentine Foreign Minister emphasized in September that these actions would not harm relations with Israel, and that continuous communication was maintained between the parties. He stated that political friendship does not grant companies immunity from Argentine claims. Milei's declaration intensified the sovereignty struggle over the islands, which have been under British control since 1833. Argentina claims sovereignty over the territory, which it calls "Malvinas Islands," viewing it as part of the Spanish Empire's legacy. A 1982 invasion by Argentina's military junta aimed to reclaim sovereignty, leading to the Falklands War, which resulted in British control being re-established after 74 days of fighting and hundreds of casualties on both sides. A 2013 referendum saw over 99% of islanders vote to remain under British rule, yet Argentina continues to view it as an illegal occupation, and the sovereignty claim remains a significant national issue.