Britain has announced the immediate suspension of 30 out of its 350 arms export licenses to Israel, citing concerns that the equipment might be used in ways that violate international humanitarian law, according to Foreign Minister David Lammy. The suspension does not constitute a blanket ban or a complete arms embargo but specifically targets items that could be used in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.
Lammy emphasized that while the UK recognizes Israel’s right to defend itself, there are serious concerns about the methods employed by Israel, including reports of civilian casualties and the destruction of civilian infrastructure. This decision follows a promise made by Lammy after the Labour Party’s election victory in July to review arms sales to Israel to ensure compliance with international law.
Addressing Parliament, Lammy stated, “It is with regret that I inform the House today that the assessment I have received indicates a clear risk that certain UK arms exports to Israel might be used to commit or facilitate serious violations of international humanitarian law.” He noted that British exports account for less than 1% of the total arms Israel receives, suggesting that the suspension would not significantly impact Israel’s security, while reiterating Britain’s support for Israel’s right to self-defense.
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz expressed disappointment over the decision, calling it a troubling signal to Hamas and Iran. Investigations into alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity are underway for both Israeli and Palestinian leaders following the deadly October 7 attacks by Hamas and the subsequent Israeli response, which has resulted in significant casualties in Gaza.
Lammy clarified that the decision is not an assessment of whether Israel has breached international law. “This is a forward-looking evaluation and does not constitute a judgment of innocence or guilt,” he said, underscoring that the review does not preempt future legal determinations.
Data from the UK government revealed that the value of permits granted for military sales to Israel plummeted by over 95% since the start of the conflict in Gaza, hitting a 13-year low. Many of the approved licenses during this period were for non-lethal or commercial items such as body armor and ballistic protection.
Among the suspended items are components for military aircraft, including fighter jets, helicopters, and drones, although parts for F-35 fighters are exempt unless directly bound for Israel due to broader international implications for the jets’ global program.
Sam Perlo-Freeman, Research Coordinator for Campaign Against Arms Trade, welcomed the move but criticized the exemption of F-35 parts as unjustifiable. Unlike the United States, which recently approved a $20 billion arms sale to Israel, the UK does not directly supply weapons but issues licenses to companies, ensuring compliance with international law through legal reviews.
Despite the Labour Party’s landslide election victory, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has faced pressure from some lawmakers and communities to adopt a tougher stance on Israel due to the conflict’s impact on civilian lives.
