Cleverly avoids mention of Israel’s internal crisis in speech warning of Iranian threat

James Cleverly has avoided referencing Israel’s internal political crisis in a speech delivered at an international security conference, focusing instead on condemnation of Iran for “enabling terrorism”  across the Jewish state and occupied Palestinian territories.

Speaking on Tuesday, during a three-day visit to the Middle East, the foreign secretary noted how “only a few months ago” the UK and Israel were “united in grief” following the murder of Lucy Dee, 48, and her daughters Maia Dee, 20, and Rina Dee, 15, by Palestinian terrorists.

Cleverly said the UK has continued to stand by Israel in the face of terrorist attacks “and will continue to do so” as he called for the creation of a world where terrorists receive no support. He also hailed Israel’s ability to defend itself, not just with its impressive Iran Dome system, but also through other areas “often unseen, but nevertheless essential.”

The cabinet minister then turned his focus towards Iran, a regime who he recalled had “regularly called for the destruction of Israel, something the UK would never countenance.”

Cleverly said Iran funds terrorist groups such as Hamas, Palestinian Jihad” and accused them of influencing those who “shoot innocent people, fire rockets into civilian area, shoot innocent people of all faiths and all nationalities.”

Later in his speech, he admitted “we cannot of course ignore the Israel/Palestinian conflict, adding “we do not need to share or endorse the twisted logic of terrorists.”

Highlighting the way in Northern Ireland , where “the shadow of terrorism has not completely gone, Cleverly spoke of the way “reconciliation seemed unthinkable.”

But he noted that both sides had managed to come together, although the Irish situation was not totally the same.

Cleverly them briefly referenced Israel’s settler problem, saying he commended “legal action” being taken against “those settlers who perpetrated violence.” 

He added:”We do need to make sure that there is a respect for law and I know that is something I’ve been able to discuss with Israeli ministers.”

Cleverly has held talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a three day visit, and also Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Shtayyeh.

He has held talks with Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen and attend a demonstration of Israel’s Iron Dome missile defence system.

During a visit to the Palestinian territories, Cleverly will visit the Jalazone refugee camp in the West Bank to see Palestinian refugees.

After meeting Netanyahu a tweet from Cleverly raised eyebrows when he wrote:”United by our unwavering belief in democracy. “