Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered Israel to support Argentina over the Falklands, The Telegraph can reveal.

The Israeli prime minister told diplomats to change his country’s official position and join Buenos Aires in calling for direct talks about the future of the islands, and to recognise Argentina’s historical connection to the territory.

Netanyahu, who has a close bond with Javier Milei, the Argentine president, altered his position following last month’s decision by Ed Miliband, the Foreign Secretary, to impose economic sanctions on West Bank settlements.

The change in stance falls short of formally backing Argentina’s claim over the Falklands, but will raise fears that Israel could throw its weight behind Buenos Aires if Britain imposes further sanctions on the settlements.

Read more: Netanyahu authorises support for Argentina over Falklands (or, in other words, the Cult authorises the next move over Falklands)