Rishi Sunak meets Netanyahu for talks in Downing Street about Iran and terrorism as protesters brand the Israeli prime minister a “dictator on the run.”
Rishi Sunak met Benjamin Netanyahu for talks in Downing Street today as protesters gathered outside the gates.
The prime minister greeted his Israeli counterpart in front of the famous black door ahead of their discussions, which were expected to focus on the threat from Iran and terrorism.
However, the arrival was overshadowed by noisy demonstrations against the measures that critics say are dragging the nation towards a more authoritarian system.
As the leaders shook hands, shouts of “shame” in Hebrew were heard from the activists waving Israeli flags and banners.
A banner waved outside Downing Street described Netanyahu as a “dictator on the run”.
His nationalist coalition has pushed through legislation that would protect him from being deemed unfit to govern, in what some believe is a preemptive effort to protect him from the potential consequences of a corruption trial.
Rishi Sunak greeted his Israeli counterpart, Benjamin Netanyahu, in front of the famous black door ahead of their talks, which will focus on the threat from Iran and terrorism.
A banner brandished outside Downing Street described Netanyahu as a “dictator on the run.”
The arrival was overshadowed by noisy demonstrations against measures that critics say are dragging the country towards a more authoritarian system.
Netanyahu’s office said it hopes to focus on “the Iran problem” with the UK prime minister seeking to form “a united international front against Iran to stop its nuclear program.”
“The two are also expected to discuss strengthening strategic ties between Israel and the UK and increasing security and intelligence cooperation,” a statement said.
The Israeli leader will also meet with Interior Minister Suella Braverman to discuss how to deal with “global terrorism”, he added.
In Israel, traffic has been blocked on major roads and clashes with police have broken out in recent weeks as protests have spread across the country.
After a series of scandals involving wealthy associates, Netanyahu is on trial for fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes. He denies any wrongdoing.
Critics say his government, seen in some quarters as the most right-wing in Israeli history, is dragging the nation toward authoritarianism by changing its system of checks and balances.
