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The United Kingdom announced on Monday the suspension of some weapon exports to Israel, citing concerns they could be used in Gaza in violation of international law.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy said the decision to suspend around 30 of the 350 export licenses followed a review indicating a clear risk of these weapons facilitating serious violations of International Humanitarian Law.
The U.K. has suspended exports of key military components to Israel, including those for fighter aircraft, helicopters, drones, and ground targeting technology, due to concerns they could be used in Gaza in violation of international law. The U.K., like the U.S. and other allies, has urged Israel to do more to prevent civilian casualties and address the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza, where around 40,000 people have died in nearly 11 months of war, with over half believed to be civilians.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant expressed disappointment over the sanctions, stating: “This comes at a time when we fight a war on seven different fronts — a war that was launched by a savage terrorist organization, unprovoked. At a time when we mourn six hostages who were executed in cold blood by Hamas inside tunnels in Gaza. At a time when we fight to bring 101 hostages home. I stand by our troops and security agencies working with immense courage, professionalism, and moral values. We remain committed to defending the state of Israel and her people.”
The U.K.’s decision to pause certain weapons exports goes further than the Biden administration’s actions to pressure Israel. While the U.S. did suspend two shipments of large bombs intended for Rafah, Gaza, due to concerns about civilian casualties, it ultimately provided Israel with a package of smaller bombs instead.
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