Despite the suspension of some arms exports, Britain reaffirmed its “commitment to Israel’s security”.
Britain Suspends Arms Exports to Israel Amid Gaza Conflict
British Defense Secretary John Healy confirmed the UK’s commitment to Israel’s security despite suspending some arms export licenses to the country, which has been waging war in the Gaza Strip for over 10 months.
Healy clarified that the British decision “will not have a real impact on Israel’s security,” according to Reuters.
The UK announced it would suspend 30 of 350 licenses to export weapons to Israel, citing a “clear danger” they could be used in serious violations of international humanitarian law.
British Foreign Secretary David Lammy told parliament that certain arms exports to Israel pose a “clear risk” of facilitating or committing serious violations of international humanitarian law.
The partial ban includes items that “could be used in the current conflict in Gaza” between Israel and Hamas.
Britain’s Decision to Freeze Arms Exports to Israel
Britain announced the suspension of 30 arms export licenses to Israel, citing concerns over potential violations of international humanitarian law.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant criticized the British decision, expressing disappointment and stating that it comes at a time when Israel is fighting on multiple fronts.
Lammy insisted that the decision is not a general ban and does not include components of the F-35 fighter jet.
The decision follows a review of arms licenses exported to Israel, which the British Foreign Secretary requested shortly after taking office in early July.
Lammy affirmed his support for Israel’s right to self-defense but emphasized that the British government’s position is not firm.
He stated that the UK cannot rule on whether Israel has violated international humanitarian law, as it is “not an international court.”
Israeli Reaction to Britain’s Decision
Israeli officials expressed disappointment at Britain’s decision to freeze arms exports, which came amid concerns over potential use against civilians in the Gaza Strip.
The Labor government, led by Keir Starmer, has repeatedly called for an end to the Gaza war, which began after Hamas’s attack on Israel on 7 October.
Last week, the British Foreign Secretary expressed deep concern about Israeli military operations in the West Bank.
Sasha Deshmukh, director of Amnesty International’s office in Britain, stated that the decision is “too limited” and “full of loopholes,” citing exemptions for F-35 aircraft used in Gaza.
Deshmukh warned that the government risks complicity in war crimes, racism, and possibly genocide.