Yair Netanyahu’s Falklands post draws backlash from Israel’s British allies

A social media post by Yair Netanyahu asserting that the Falkland Islands belong to Argentina has provoked criticism in the United Kingdom, including from political and media figures known for supporting Israel.

The Israeli prime minister’s son wrote on X that the South Atlantic archipelago, administered by Britain but claimed by Argentina, was Argentine territory. His comments came amid growing tensions between Israel and Britain’s Labour government, which Israeli officials and supporters have accused of taking an increasingly hostile stance toward the Jewish state.

Several prominent voices on the British right rejected Netanyahu’s position. Commentator Alex Armstrong called the remarks “unconstructive,” arguing that Labour government policy should not be confused with the views of British society or the pro-Israel right.

Armstrong warned that questioning British sovereignty over the islands could alienate political allies who have defended Israel for years.

British lawmaker Rupert Lowe also responded sharply, urging Netanyahu to concentrate on Israel’s own challenges. Lowe declared that “the Falklands are British and will remain so,” adding that a future British government would be prepared to defend the territory militarily if necessary.

Located in the South Atlantic, near Argentina’s coast, the Falkland Islands have been under British administration since the 19th century. Argentina, which calls them the Malvinas, continues to claim sovereignty over the territory.

The dispute led to war in 1982 after Argentine forces invaded the islands. Britain launched a military campaign that ended with Argentina’s surrender and the restoration of British control.

The issue has recently returned to international attention amid speculation that the United States could reconsider its position on the long-running sovereignty dispute.