Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has condemned the UK’s recent decision to suspend certain arms sales to Israel, labeling it as “shameful.” He emphasized that Britain’s choice undermines Israel’s fight against terrorism, suggesting it would only serve to empower Hamas.
The comments follow remarks from UK Defence Secretary John Healey, who affirmed that the UK remains a “staunch ally” of Israel, asserting that the security of the nation would not be compromised by the suspension of approximately 30 out of 350 arms export licenses. The government has expressed concerns that these weapons could potentially be misused in Gaza, violating international laws. However, Amnesty International UK has criticized the measures, deeming them “too limited.”
The timing of the announcement has drawn criticism, coinciding with the funerals of six hostages killed by Hamas. Healey remarked on the emotional weight of the situation, noting that the timing was dictated by legal obligations, including the need to inform Parliament.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy confirmed the suspension of 30 arms export licenses to Israel, impacting essential military equipment, including components for fighter jets and drones. Healey indicated that these specific licenses were targeted because they supported offensive operations in Gaza, while most other exports remain unaffected as they are unrelated to the ongoing conflict.
UK arms exports to Israel represent a minimal portion, contributing only 1% to Israel’s defence imports. The UK continues to maintain arms sales to various nations, including Ukraine, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey. Notably, the United States dominates as the primary arms supplier to Israel, providing 69% of major conventional arms from 2019 to 2023.
Amnesty International UK has accused the UK government of engaging in “gesture politics,” asserting that less than 10% of arms export licenses were suspended. The charity’s CEO emphasized the limited nature of the restrictions and highlighted concerns regarding potential complicity in war crimes by Israeli forces.
While Netanyahu expressed confidence in Israel’s ability to prevail in the conflict, he criticized the UK for its lack of support during a critical time. In response to statements from former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Healey reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to Israel’s right to defend itself against any direct threats.
Critics within the Labour Party also expressed unease about the decision’s timing. Former shadow foreign secretary Emily Thornberry termed it “unfortunate,” underlining the implications of announcing the suspension during such somber events.
Calls for a more comprehensive suspension of arms sales have emerged, with independent MP Zarah Sultana urging an end to all sales to Israel, labeling F35 jets as notably lethal. Meanwhile, former national arms advisor Lord Peter Ricketts characterized the suspension as “long overdue,” advocating for a halt to arms sales based on previous incidents involving civilian casualties in Gaza.
The Israeli military’s campaign in Gaza marks an intensified response to the unprecedented attack by Hamas on southern Israel on October 7, which resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 individuals and the kidnapping of 251 others. Reports indicate that over 40,000 people have lost their lives in Gaza since the escalation of the conflict.
