The UK government has announced the suspension of some arms sales to Israel, citing a “clear risk” that they might be used to commit serious violations of international humanitarian law. This decision follows a review of UK arms exports to Israel, which was launched by Foreign Secretary David Lammy upon taking office.
The review found that there was a risk that UK arms could be used to commit or facilitate serious violations of international humanitarian law. As a result, around 30 of 350 export licences will be suspended. Lammy stressed that the suspension is not a blanket ban or an arms embargo, but rather a targeted measure to ensure that UK arms exports are not contributing to humanitarian law violations.
The move comes amid growing pressure on the UK government to take a tougher stance against Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The UK does not directly supply Israel with weapons, but does grant export licences for British companies to sell arms to the country. Earlier in the year, civil servants overseeing arms exports to Israel requested to “cease work immediately” over fears they could be complicit in war crimes.
Lammy emphasized that the decision does not prejudge any future determinations by competent courts. He also stated that the UK government continues to support Israel’s right to self-defence in accordance with international law. Shadow foreign secretary Andrew Mitchell welcomed the announcement, but said he would “look carefully” at the limited embargo.
The conflict in Gaza has reached a critical point, with the potential for further escalation or a move towards a peaceful solution. Britain’s role, according to Mitchell, must be to help facilitate a sustainable end to the current suffering. This can only be achieved by lifting people’s eyes to the prospect of a different horizon in the future.
