The government of United Kingdom has reportedly begun suspending arms export licences to Israel while ministers conduct a comprehensive policy review.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy has yet to make a final decision, but the suspension aligns with increasing pressure from international bodies and human rights organisations such as AOAV.
A recent International Court of Justice ruling deemed Israel’s settlement program illegal under international law, further intensifying calls to halt arms exports.
A spokesperson for the Department for Business and Trade emphasized the importance of adhering to both domestic and international legal obligations in arms exports. “We are reviewing the advice available and will come to a considered decision,” they stated.
Recall that since 2008, the UK has exported arms worth over £576 million to Israel, including parts for F-15, F-16, and F-35 fighter jets.
However, it seems that civil servants have ceased issuing new permits, with individuals seeking permission to export arms to Israel receiving notices stating, “suspended pending policy review.” This places Israel in the same category as North Korea and Iran regarding UK arms export restrictions.
