Tugendhat reacts to Netanyahu calling Israel arms suspension "shameful"

Brittish politician Tom Tugendhat, former security minister and current Tory leadership candidate, has called for an apology from the Conservative Party, emphasizing the need for integrity and seriousness in governance. Speaking at his leadership campaign launch in central London, Tugendhat asserted, “I know that integrity matters, so I want to start with an apology. The Conservative Party owes you better. Politics isn’t a game, and we all know the cost when government isn’t sober and serious.”

Tugendhat’s call for accountability comes against the backdrop of controversy over the UK's suspension of approximately 30 arms export licenses to Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the suspension as “shameful,” asserting it would not deter Israel's resolve against Hamas, which he described as a genocidal terrorist organization responsible for the deaths of over 1,200 people, including 14 British citizens, on October 7.

Netanyahu’s remarks have fueled criticism of the UK's decision, with UK Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis expressing disbelief. Meanwhile, UK Defence Secretary John Healey defended the suspension, claiming it would not significantly impact Israel’s security.