Kathmandu— Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the United Kingdom as the “Islamic Republic of Britain” in comments released Friday, amid growing tensions between the two countries over the UK’s stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and broader regional issues. The remarks came during a radio interview where Netanyahu criticized British media coverage of Israel and referenced a joke made by US Vice President JD Vance earlier this year. The British Foreign Office has condemned the comments as “completely unacceptable,” signaling a further cooling of relations between London and Jerusalem.

Escalating Diplomatic Friction

Relations between the UK and Israel have been strained since September 2025, when the United Kingdom formally recognized the State of Palestine – a move rejected by Netanyahu’s government. This recognition has prompted calls within the new British Labour government, led by Prime Minister Andy Burnham, for increased pressure on Israel, including potential sanctions and trade restrictions targeting Israeli settlements.

Nuclear Weapon Analogy

Netanyahu compared contemporary Britain to an “Islamic republic” and echoed a 2024 joke made by US Vice President JD Vance, suggesting the UK could become the first “Islamic republic with nuclear weapons.” This comparison draws on the fact that Muslims comprise approximately 6% of the UK population, while Pakistan – officially the Islamic Republic of Pakistan – has possessed nuclear capabilities since the 1990s.

Continued Security Cooperation

Despite growing political disagreements, Britain continues to maintain military-export ties with Israel. While London suspended some arms licenses in 2024 due to concerns about potential violations of international humanitarian law, exemptions were made for components supplied through the multinational F-35 program. Furthermore, Britain provided military support during recent conflict involving Iran, deploying aircraft and allowing US forces access to British bases.

US Support Also Wavering

The exchange with the UK follows reports of growing frustration with Netanyahu within the United States as well. According to Axios, President Donald Trump has so far declined to endorse Netanyahu ahead of Israel’s upcoming October election, despite repeated requests. The Israeli Prime Minister recently rejected a 15-point Gaza plan supported by Trump, maintaining that Israeli forces will not withdraw until Hamas is fully disarmed.

The British Foreign Office has communicated its disapproval of Netanyahu's comments to the Israeli government, and further developments are expected as relations between the two nations remain tense.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.