British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced the suspension of 30 arms export licenses to Israel, drawing criticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and British Jewish leaders, who argue that the move will embolden Hamas and undermine Israel's ability to defend itself against terrorism.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has denounced the British government's decision to suspend arms exports to Israel, labeling it a "shameful" move that will not deter Israel's resolve to defeat Hamas. Netanyahu emphasized that Hamas is a "genocidal terrorist organization" that has brutally murdered civilians, including British citizens. He expressed disappointment that Britain, a supposed ally, had chosen to side with Hamas rather than support Israel's self-defense against barbarism.
Britain's Arms Suspension to Israel Sparks Criticism as Netanyahu Vows to Defeat Hamas
Netanyahu asserted that Israel is conducting a just war with just means, taking extraordinary measures to protect civilians and fully complying with international law. He dismissed claims of humanitarian violations as falsehoods, emphasizing that Israel goes to exceptional lengths to uphold international humanitarian law.
British Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis criticized the decision, stating that it perpetuates the false narrative that Israel is breaking international law and encourages their shared enemies. He called for accountability for Hamas's heinous crimes and urged Britain to stand with Israel, a fellow democracy defending itself against terrorism.
Britain's Arms Suspension to Israel Sparks Criticism as Netanyahu Vows to Defeat Hamas
Critics have highlighted the inconsistency and hypocrisy of the British government's move. While Britain has halted arms exports to Israel, countries with severe human rights violations, such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, continue to receive significant arms shipments. Major (Ret.) Andrew Fox of the Henry Jackson Society condemned the decision as performative and dangerous.
The suspension of arms exports is unlikely to significantly impact Israel's ability to fight Hamas in the Gaza conflict. Britain supplies a relatively small number of weapons to Israel compared to the United States and other countries. Moreover, Israel has taken unprecedented measures to minimize civilian casualties and strictly adhere to established rules of engagement.
Britain's Arms Suspension to Israel Sparks Criticism as Netanyahu Vows to Defeat Hamas
Critics allege that the decision is purely political, aimed at appeasing left-wing elements within the British government's support base. Jake Wallace Simons, editor of Britain's Jewish Chronicle, noted that Israel buys a small fraction of its arsenal from Britain, while countries sponsoring terrorism and engaging in blatant human rights violations continue to receive British weapons.
The UK's decision marks a departure from the Biden administration's approach to the Israel-Hamas conflict. The US has not suspended arms exports to Israel, recognizing the country's legitimate right to self-defense and the need to combat terrorism.
Britain's Arms Suspension to Israel Sparks Criticism as Netanyahu Vows to Defeat Hamas
Fox warned that the UK's move will weaken its ability to influence the course of the Gaza conflict and damage its diplomatic standing with other close allies. He said that Britain will have no influence in Jerusalem and that its allies will perceive it as susceptible to domestic political pressure, which could embolden adversaries like Iran and Russia.
A request for comment from British Foreign Secretary David Lammy's special advisor remained unanswered.
Britain's Arms Suspension to Israel Sparks Criticism as Netanyahu Vows to Defeat Hamas
