Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sparked a fresh controversy after describing the United Kingdom as the “Islamic Republic of Britain” and claiming that it could become the “first Islamic republic” to possess nuclear weapons. His remarks came amid already strained relations between Israel and Britain over the Gaza war and London’s increasingly critical position on Israel’s military campaign.

Netanyahu made the comments during a podcast-style interview for Israel’s Army Radio, where he was discussing Britain’s changing political landscape and its relationship with Israel. The remarks were reported by The Guardian and have since triggered debate over the Israeli leader’s characterization of British society and politics.

Netanyahu’s ‘Islamic Republic’ Remark

While discussing Britain and referring to the legacy of former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, Netanyahu contrasted the country's past relationship with Israel with what he described as its present political environment.

He referred to modern Britain as the “Islamic republic of Britain” and later said that someone had described it as the “first Islamic republic with nuclear weapons.”

The statement appears to draw on a far-right narrative that portrays Britain as being increasingly influenced by its Muslim population. Muslims, however, remain a minority in the United Kingdom, which is not an Islamic republic.

Reference to Pakistan

Netanyahu’s comments also appeared to reference Pakistan, whose official name is the Islamic Republic of Pakistanand which has possessed nuclear weapons since the 1990s.

By describing Britain in similar terms, Netanyahu appeared to suggest a hypothetical future in which Britain could become an Islamic republic while retaining its nuclear capabilities.

The remarks have attracted attention because they came from the Israeli prime minister at a time when relations with one of Britain’s historically important Western allies are already under pressure.

UK-Israel Relations Under Strain

Relations between London and Jerusalem have deteriorated over Israel’s military operations in Gaza, Britain's position on Palestinian statehood and its criticism of Israeli policies in the region.

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has adopted a more critical approach towards the Israeli government. Before becoming prime minister, Burnham had acknowledged that Labour had not handled its initial response to the Gaza conflict correctly and said the party needed to take a different approach.

In July, Burnham said Britain would do more to put pressure on the Israeli government. He also indicated that London could consider additional sanctions against individuals and organisations and restrictions related to goods produced in Israeli settlements.

These developments have contributed to growing diplomatic tensions between the two countries.

Remarks Echo JD Vance

Netanyahu’s latest comments also resemble remarks made by US Vice-President JD Vance during the 2024 US presidential campaign.

Vance had previously warned that Britain could become the first “truly Islamist country” to obtain nuclear weapons. Netanyahu’s description of Britain appears to follow a similar line of argument about the country’s changing demographics and politics.

Such comments have repeatedly faced criticism from British political figures and Muslim community representatives, who argue that they contribute to Islamophobic narratives.

Criticism Within Israel

The remarks have also drawn criticism inside Israel.

Avi Dabush, a candidate from Israel’s opposition Democrats party, accused Netanyahu of attacking an important Western ally at a time when Israel is already facing increasing international isolation.

Critics have argued that Netanyahu’s comments could further complicate Israel’s diplomatic position, particularly as the country seeks continued political and strategic support from Western governments.

No Official Response Yet

According to The Guardian, Netanyahu’s office did not immediately respond to questions about whether the description of Britain represented the official position of the Israeli government.

The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office also had not immediately issued a response to the remarks.

Netanyahu’s comments are likely to add another layer of tension to an already difficult relationship between Britain and Israel, especially as London continues to reassess its position on the Gaza conflict and its broader Middle East policy.