Christians United For Israel (CUFI) welcomes historic agreement between the UK and Israel

 

CUFI welcomes historic agreement between the UK and Israel The United Kingdom and Israel have signed a joint 'memorandum of understanding' inking a 10 year plan that has been described as "historic".  Signed in London by Foreign Secretary Liz Truss and her Israeli counterpart, Yair Lapid, the agreement is arguably one of the most significant steps forward in Israel-UK relations in recent times. Our two nations have promised closer cooperation on cybersecurity, technology, defence, trade and science, including a pledge to work “night and day” to stop Iran’s nuclear weapon programme. CUFI UK's Executive Director, Des Starritt, said, "CUFI UK welcomes the recent Memorandum of Understanding between the UK and Israel as a positive step forward in relations between our two nations. We encourage our Government to boldly uphold this agreement and make it clear in global forums like the UN that the UK firmly stands with Israel."   KEY POINTS On Iran In a joint-statement, Truss and Lapid said, ”We will also work night and day to prevent the Iranian regime from ever becoming a nuclear power. The clock is ticking, which heightens the need for close cooperation with our partners and friends to thwart Tehran’s ambitions.” They added, "Many fear the skies are darkening worldwide due to the pandemic, the threat of terrorism and hostile actors seeking the upper hand. But we believe that with the right approach, freedom and democracy will prevail over malign forces." On defence and security Israel will officially become a tier-one cyber partner for the UK. Both countries also acknowledged joint-military exercises, especially between our air forces. On trade and tech The trading relationship is now worth £5 billion, citing companies like Rolls-Royce supplying engines for the Israeli national airline and pharmaceutical giant Teva, now providing one in six of the NHS prescription medicines. Both countries will pave the way to negotiating a bespoke UK-Israel free trade agreement. The partnership will keep both at the forefront of the technological revolution, it says. Meanwhile, the UK will also open its doors to high-growth Israeli tech firms. "This pact will spur technological breakthroughs which have the potential to change the world, create high-quality jobs in both our countries and provide tools to our security forces," they stated, "But more than that, it is a victory for optimism." On antisemitism The statement reads, "There is no place for anti-Semitism anywhere in the world. That is why the UK has moved decisively to support Israel in this fight by proscribing Hamas in its entirety. The Holocaust Memorial and Learning Centre, planned for near Parliament, will stand as a constant reminder, and demonstrate why we must stamp out anti-Semitism and hate." On peace in the region Following the Abraham Accords, the UK says that it is continuing to play its part in supporting Israel as it works closely with partners in the region. PROMISES TO KEEP The agreement is a real testament to the bond between our two nations, but also a poignant reminder of the responsibility that the UK has in keeping our commitment to stand with Israel. We will be praying that Britain keeps its promises to Israel and that both our nations will be blessed under the faithful abundance of God's provision and protection.