Israel could punish UK over Palestine recognition – Times

Officials have warned about potential cuts in intelligence sharing and national security ramifications, according to the newspaper

Israel is reportedly weighing retaliatory measures against the UK over its anticipated recognition of Palestinian statehood, including the potential suspension of intelligence sharing, The Times reported on Thursday.

A diplomatic source, apparently speaking on behalf of the Israeli government, warned that Britain “has a lot to lose if Israel’s government decides to take steps in response.” The official cautioned that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his cabinet “have cards they could play too.”

Israel condemned the British government’s stated intention to recognize a Palestinian state next month unless humanitarian conditions in Gaza improve significantly. Netanyahu accused UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer of “rewarding terrorism.” Israel’s critics allege that its policies in Gaza are designed to render the enclave uninhabitable, forcing civilians to flee or face death.

The Times reported that a deterioration in UK-Israel security cooperation could have damaging effects for both countries.

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The newspaper suggested that Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency has provided valuable information to British counterparts, including intelligence that reportedly helped foil an alleged plot targeting the Israeli Embassy in London. The UK also utilizes Israeli-made surveillance drones in military operations. Conversely, Israel receives spare parts for its fleet of F-35 fighter jets from the UK. As Israel’s defense exports to Britain significantly exceed its imports, a disruption in trade would harm it more economically.

Unnamed security experts told the paper that Israel is unlikely to enact drastic measures, while a UK government spokesperson declined to comment on “anonymous speculation about intelligence matters.”

Since the latest escalation of the Middle East conflict in late 2023, several countries have either recognized Palestinian statehood or announced plans to do so at next month’s United Nations General Assembly session.

This week, Israel’s security cabinet approved a plan for military occupation of Gaza City, potentially leading to full takeover of the enclave.