The United Kingdom says it will suspend 30 out of 350 arms exports licences to Israel, citing a “clear risk” they could be used in serious breaches of international humanitarian law.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy told parliament on Monday that the partial ban covers items “which could be used in the current conflict in Gaza” against Hamas but did not include parts for F-35 fighter jets.
He said the decision to suspend the licenses did not amount to a blanket ban or an arms embargo, adding that the UK continues to support Israel’s right to self-defense in accordance with international law.
Soon after the Labour Party won the general election in July, Lammy said he would update a review on arms sales to Britain’s ally Israel to ensure they complied with international law.
“It is with regret that I inform the House [of Commons] today the assessment I have received leaves me unable to conclude anything other than that for certain UK arms exports to Israel, there does exist a clear risk that they might be used to commit or facilitate a serious violation of international humanitarian law,” Lammy said.
In response, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said in a statement that his country was “disappointed by a series of decisions” made by the British government, including the decision regarding defence exports.
Katz said the move “sends a very problematic message” to the Palestinian group Hamas and its patrons in Iran.
United Kingdom firms sell a relatively small amount of weapons and components to Israel compared to major suppliers such as the U.S. and Germany. Earlier this year, the government said military exports to Israel amounted to 42 million pounds ($53 million) in 2022.
But the U.K. is one of Israel’s closest allies, so the decision carries some symbolic significance. The military affairs correspondent for Israel’s Channel 13 TV said that the move could become more serious if other allies follow suit.
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