Missed Connections: Sir Keir Starmer and Benjamin Netanyahu Fail to Meet in New York Amid Tensions and Calls for Ceasefire

Sir Keir Starmer and Benjamin Netanyahu did not have a meeting in New York, although both were present and the British had anticipated such discussions, according to Sky News.

Security and Defense Editor @haynesdeborah

Friday, September 27, 2024, 3:

According to Sky News, the British Prime Minister was unable to hold a meeting with the Israeli Prime Minister during a global leaders' summit in New York, although there were expectations from the UK for such discussions to take place.

An informed individual noted that the schedules of Sir Keir Starmer and Benjamin Netanyahu did not coincide.

Furthermore, a scheduled meeting between the prime minister and Ron Dermer, Israel's Minister of Strategic Affairs, was called off after the high-ranking Israeli official postponed his trip to the United Nations General Assembly by one day.

Stay updated on the Israel-Hezbollah situation: Live coverage available here

Despite Israel intensifying its military campaign against Hezbollah in Lebanon, there were no discussions between the leaders of Britain and Israel. This occurred even as the UK and other international partners urged for a swift cessation of hostilities, concerned about the potential for the conflict to expand into a broader regional war.

The text also came after Mr. Netanyahu criticized the UK government's recent decision to halt certain arms export licenses to Israel. He had earlier described this action as disgraceful, suggesting it would only serve to empower Hamas, another militant group supported by Iran, which Israel is currently combating.

An insider noted that while there was no scheduled meeting between Sir Keir and Mr. Netanyahu in New York, there were aspirations that it could occur.

Coverage on Benjamin Netanyahu

During his UN address, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a fervent speech, using visual aids yet failing to present a definitive strategy to conclude the conflict.

Has Israel undermined the optimal opportunity to conclude the conflict in Lebanon?

Washington indicates that a ceasefire in Lebanon may be imminent, according to a hopeful update.

Associated Subjects:

It is recommended to utilize the Chrome browser for improved video player accessibility.

"A source, who requested to remain unnamed, indicated that there were indeed efforts to schedule discussions, but aligning the schedules proved challenging."

"We had hoped to schedule a meeting," but an agreement was not reached.

The Jewish Chronicle reported that the two leaders did not have a meeting, even though they were both in New York simultaneously.

Sources from Downing Street emphasized that the situation should not be viewed as a slight, noting that the government maintains frequent communication with Israeli officials.

👉 Tap here to follow the Sky News Daily on your favorite podcast platform 👈

In contrast, the Prime Minister of the UK did engage in discussions with his counterpart from Lebanon.

Downing Street announced that Sir Keir extended his heartfelt sympathies to Najib Mikati for the civilian lives lost in recent weeks.

"They talked about the intensifying situation in Lebanon and concurred on the need for an urgent ceasefire and a diplomatic resolution."

Stay informed on the most recent developments both within the UK and internationally by tuning into Sky News.

In his first speech at the UN General Assembly, the UK's prime minister urged Israel and Hezbollah, supported by Iran and labeled a terrorist group by the UK, to implement a ceasefire, stating that "escalation benefits no one."

Sir Keir urged both parties to reconsider their positions and avoid escalation.

Associated Subjects

Sky News Base

Introduction to Sky News

Services Provided by Sky News

Sky Networks

Additional Sky Platforms