Sa'ar to Britain: The Mandate is over

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar released a harsh rebuke of Britain following its decision to join countries such as Canada in sanctioning ministers Smotrich and Ben-Gvir for alleged bigoted statements against Palestinians.

In the statement, Sa'ar said that:

"The British Mandate for the land of Israel ended in May 1948. It will never return.

"The political pressure on Israel, which manifests itself in various ways, has one goal: to bring about an end to the war without achieving its goals, while Hamas still controls Gaza and continues to endanger Israel's security. This is pressure, well planned and timed, that includes a series of moves by various countries, decisions in international forums, and proceedings in the so-called "international courts."

"The actions and decisions against Israel also contribute to hardening Hamas' stance in the negotiations for the hostage deal - and distance it and the ceasefire.

"This is the context in which the decision by the UK and other countries against Ministers Smotrich and Ben Gvir must be seen in.

"Israel is a sovereign, independent, and proud state that is fighting a historic battle for its existence against a regional axis working to destroy it. Israel will emerge from this battle with the upper hand - first and foremostly because it has no other choice.

"The decisions taken against Ministers in the Israeli government, which is collectively responsible for its decisions, are outrageous and unacceptable.

"Those within Israel who try to justify such decisions are doing something severe. I commend MK Benny Gantz for his responsible and patriotic response.

"Early next week, we will hold a government meeting in which we will decide on our response to the decisions taken against the Ministers."