"London Should Be Careful": Israel's Security Card Against UK Recognition of a Palestinian State
Over the past two years, Israeli intelligence has provided critical information to British agencies about Iran-backed threats on UK soil. These threats, are now considered as serious as those posed by adversaries like Russia.
According to a report in the British Times, Israel is considering suspending security and intelligence cooperation with the United Kingdom if Prime Minister Keir Starmer proceeds with formal recognition of a Palestinian state.
The move, if carried out, could threaten national security on both sides and potentially damage one of Israel’s strongest defense and trade partnerships in Europe.
Diplomatic sources cited in the report say that Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government is actively weighing this option among several possible responses. One source warned, “London should be careful. Bibi and his ministers have cards to play. Israel values its partnership with the UK, but recent decisions have caused real pressure, and Britain has a lot to lose if Israel chooses to act.”
Intelligence Ties Run Deep
Experts quoted in the report warned that halting the decades-long security and intelligence alliance could carry significant consequences. Over the past two years, Israeli intelligence has provided critical information to British agencies about Iran-backed threats on UK soil. These threats, according to the report, are now considered as serious as those posed by adversaries like Russia.
One such intelligence tip allegedly helped the UK foil a major terror plot against the Israeli embassy in London. The information led to two of the country’s largest counterterror operations in recent years, resulting in the arrests of five individuals tied to a suspected plan to attack the embassy in Kensington, West London.
Economic and Defense Impacts
The fallout would not only be strategic but also economic. Israel is a major exporter of weapons systems, parts, and defense software to UK firms, including BAE Systems. Israeli-made drones have also been used by British forces in operations across Iraq and Afghanistan.
The Israeli government appears divided on the issue. While some ministers push for a bold response, others warn that severing ties with the UK could harm Israel’s economy and security infrastructure. British forces are currently aiding Israeli efforts by flying RAF aircraft over Gaza in search of hostages.
Moreover, despite recent suspensions of export licenses related to arms used in Gaza, Britain continues to supply spare parts for Israel’s F-35 fighter jets.
A Strategic Threat, Not a Final Decision
Sources suggest that Israel is using the threat as diplomatic leverage. The goal appears to be to dissuade the UK from advancing toward recognition of Palestinian statehood.
A spokesperson for the Israeli embassy in London told The Times, “Any recognition of a Palestinian state effectively rewards Hamas. This unhelpful move will not strengthen the mutually beneficial relationship between our two countries.”
Meanwhile, the British government declined to comment, stating, “We do not respond to anonymous speculation on intelligence matters.”