Netanyahu 'ordered Falklands shift towards Argentina', Telegraph reports — Israel denies it

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered Israeli diplomats to change Israel’s official position on the Falkland Islands and back Argentina’s call for direct talks with Britain over the territory’s future, The Telegraph reported on Saturday, citing anonymous sources. The reported shift stops short of formally endorsing Argentina’s sovereignty claim over the islands, which Britain holds as an overseas territory and Argentina calls the Islas Malvinas.

According to the report, Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, called for direct negotiations between the UK and Argentina at a UN session a few days ago, saying: “Israel recognizes the importance that the Argentine public attaches to this issue, as well as its ongoing efforts through diplomatic channels and in accordance with the principles of international law.” Government sources told The Telegraph the wording was approved at the highest ranks of the Israeli government, with one source saying: “This is the first time Israel has got involved in this conflict.” (The Jerusalem Post)

The report links the move to deteriorating relations between Jerusalem and London after Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband imposed economic sanctions on Israeli settlements in the West Bank last month. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar called the sanctions “antisemitic” and “morally distorted”, and Israel downgraded the UK’s consulate in Jerusalem.

Israel denied the report. Alex Gandler, spokesperson for the Israeli embassy in Britain, wrote on X: “I categorically deny this allegation. No such directive exists.” Israel’s Foreign Ministry likewise said: “The report is incorrect, there is no change in our position on the matter.” (Ynet)

The report drew criticism in Britain, where Rupert Lowe, leader of the Restore Britain party, asked why Britain should be expected to defend Israel’s national interests “if Israel’s leadership refuses to respect ours”. Britain has long held that talks on the islands’ sovereignty should take place only with the consent of islanders, who voted overwhelmingly in a 2013 referendum to remain a British overseas territory. Argentina and Britain fought a war over the islands in 1982.