Leaders of Britain, France, and Canada stated on Monday that they oppose Israel's ongoing military presence in Gaza and the expansion of settlements in the West Bank, and they may take action.
In a joint statement, the countries warned: “If Israel does not stop the renewed military offensive and lift restrictions on humanitarian aid, we will take further concrete steps in response,” The Jerusalem Post learned.
“The Israeli government’s denial of essential humanitarian assistance to the civilian population is unacceptable and risks breaching international humanitarian law,” the British government said in the statement.
“We oppose any attempt to expand settlements in the West Bank. We will not hesitate to take further action, including targeted sanctions,” the statement added.
The three Western leaders also said they have always supported Israel’s right to defend itself against terrorism, but described the current escalation as disproportionate. They vowed not to stand by while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government pursues “these egregious actions.”
The leaders expressed support for efforts led by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt to achieve an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. They also reaffirmed their commitment to recognizing a Palestinian state as part of advancing a two-state solution.
Netanyahu responds to joint statement
In a post shared to X/Twitter on Tuesday, Netanyahu responded, urging the world leaders to put pressure on Hamas to release the remaining hostages, as US President Trump has done.
"By asking Israel to end a defensive war for our survival before Hamas terrorists on our border are destroyed and by demanding a Palestinian state, the leaders in London, Ottawa, and Paris are offering a huge prize for the genocidal attack on Israel on October 7 while inviting more such atrocities.
By asking Israel to end a defensive war for our survival before Hamas terrorists on our border are destroyed and by demanding a Palestinian state, the leaders in London, Ottowa and Paris are offering a huge prize for the genocidal attack on Israel on October 7 while inviting more…
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) May 19, 2025
"The war began on October 7 when Palestinian terrorists stormed our borders, murdered 1,200 innocent people, and abducted over 250 more to the dungeons of Gaza. Israel accepts President Trump's vision and urges all European leaders to do the same.
"The war can end tomorrow if the remaining hostages are released, Hamas lays down its arms, its murderous leaders are exiled, and Gaza is demilitarized. No nation can be expected to accept anything less, and Israel certainly won't.
"This is a war of civilization over barbarism. Israel will continue to defend itself by just means until total victory is achieved."