The United Kingdom has announced plans to suspend 30 out of 350 arms export licenses to Israel, citing a “clear risk” that these exports could be used in serious violations of international humanitarian law.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy informed Parliament on Monday that the partial suspension targets items that could potentially be used in the ongoing conflict in Gaza against Hamas, though it notably excludes parts for F-35 fighter jets.
Lammy emphasized that this decision does not constitute a blanket ban or an arms embargo, reaffirming the UK’s support for Israel’s right to self-defense in line with international law.
Following the Labour Party’s victory in the July general election, Lammy committed to reviewing arms sales to Israel to ensure compliance with international legal standards.
In his address, Lammy expressed regret over the necessity of the suspension, stating, “The assessment I have received leaves me unable to conclude anything other than that certain UK arms exports to Israel pose a clear risk of being used to commit or facilitate serious violations of international humanitarian law.”
In response, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz expressed disappointment with the UK government’s decision, including the suspension of defense exports, stating that the move sends a “very problematic message” to Hamas and its supporters in Iran.
Israel’s military campaign in Gaza was launched in response to the October 7 attack on southern Israel, during which about 1,200 people were killed and 251 others taken hostage.
Since the conflict began, over 40,530 people in Gaza have been killed, according to the Hamas-run health ministry in the territory.
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