The United Kingdom has temporarily suspended the export of military equipment to Israel due to concerns that the arms could be used to violate international humanitarian law (IHL) during the ongoing conflict with Hamas. The decision was made following the murder of six Israeli hostages by Hamas.
The United Kingdom has suspended the export of dozens of weapons to Israel due to concerns that the arms could be used to violate international law, just days after Hamas murdered six hostages taken from Israel.
British Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced the decision on Monday, stating that it affected approximately 30 of the 350 export licenses for equipment that includes parts for military aircraft, drones, and items used for ground targeting.
UK Suspends Weapons Exports to Israel Amid Concerns of IHL Violations
Lammy explained that the British government believes the equipment "is for use in the current conflict in Gaza" and represents a "clear risk" that some could be used to "commit or facilitate a serious violation of international humanitarian law."
Despite the suspension, Lammy emphasized that the move was "not a determination of innocence or guilt" regarding whether Israel had broken international law and was not an arms embargo.
UK Suspends Weapons Exports to Israel Amid Concerns of IHL Violations
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant expressed disappointment in the British government's decision, describing it as "sanctions" on export licenses. He highlighted the ongoing conflict on multiple fronts and the recent execution of six hostages by Hamas.
Gallant affirmed his support for Israeli troops and security agencies, stating their unwavering commitment to defending the State of Israel and its people.
UK Suspends Weapons Exports to Israel Amid Concerns of IHL Violations
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz criticized the UK's decision, claiming that it "sends a very problematic message" to Hamas. He emphasized Israel's compliance with international law and its independent judicial system.
Katz expressed hope that the "deep friendship" between Israel and the UK will continue, despite the suspension of arms exports.
UK Suspends Weapons Exports to Israel Amid Concerns of IHL Violations
Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has asserted that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is not doing enough to secure a hostage deal with Hamas terrorists.
Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris convened a hostage deal negotiating team in the Situation Room following the murder of 23-year-old Israeli-American Hersh Goldberg-Polin and five other hostages by Hamas on Saturday.
The UK's suspension of arms exports to Israel is a significant move that reflects concerns about the potential for IHL violations in the ongoing conflict. It remains to be seen how Israel will respond to the decision and whether it will impact future negotiations between the parties involved.
