Rishi Sunak meets Netanyahu for talks in Downing Street on Iran and terrorism as protesters brand Israeli PM a ‘dictator on the run’

Rishi Sunak met Benjamin Netanyahu for talks in Downing Street today as protesters gathered outside the gates. 

The PM greeted his Israeli counterpart outside the famous black door before their discussions, expected to focus on the threat from Iran and terrorism. 

However, the arrival was overshadowed by noisy demonstrations against moves critics say are dragging the nation towards a more authoritarian system.

As the leaders shook hands there were shouts of ‘shame’ in Hebrew could be heard from activists waving Israeli flags and placards.

One sign being brandished oustide Downing Street described Mr Netanyahu a ‘dictator on the run’.

His nationalist coalition has pushed through legislation that would protect him from being deemed unfit to rule, which some believe is a pre-emptive effort to shield him from the potential consequences of a corruption trial.

Rishi Sunak greeted his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu outside the famous black door before their talks, set to focus on the threat from Iran and terrorism

One sign being brandished oustide Downing Street described Mr Netanyahu a ‘dictator on the run’

The arrival was overshadowed by noisy demonstrations against moves critics say are dragging the nation towards a more authoritarian system

Mr Netanyahu’s office said he expects to focus on ‘the Iranian issue’ with the UK Prime Minister, seeking to form ‘a united international front against Iran in order to stop its nuclear programme’.

‘The two are also expected to discuss strengthening the strategic ties between Israel and the United Kingdom and increasing security and intelligence co-operation,’ a statement said.

The Israeli leader will also meet Home Secretary Suella Braverman to discuss dealing with ‘global terrorism’, it added.

In Israel, traffic has been blocked on major roads and scuffles with police have broken out over recent weeks as protests swept the nation.

After a series of scandals involving wealthy associates, Mr Netanyahu is on trial for fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes. He denies wrongdoing.

Critics say his government, regarded in some quarters as the most right-wing in Israel’s history, is dragging the nation towards authoritarianism by upending its system of checks and balances.

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