LONDON — Britain’s new Defence Secretary Wes Streeting has defended his previous comments accusing Israel of possible war crimes, saying he will not withdraw statements that are already part of the public record.
Speaking at the Farnborough International Airshow, Streeting said Israel has the right to defend itself but must be held to the same standards applied to Britain and its other allies.
“I have expressed very clearly my concerns about Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank. My comments are there. They are published. They are on the record. I am not going to pretend I didn’t make those comments,” he said.
Streeting previously criticized the Israeli government’s actions, accusing it of using language linked to ethnic cleansing and describing some actions as resembling those of a “rogue state.”
The Defence Secretary said being a friend and ally of Israel does not mean avoiding criticism, arguing that close partners should be judged by the same legal and ethical standards.
His comments come as the UK government continues to face pressure over its relationship with Israel, including questions about arms exports, defence cooperation, and diplomatic policy regarding the war in Gaza.
Streeting said decisions on weapons purchases, trade agreements, and diplomatic relations are made through official government processes rather than by the Defence Secretary alone.
