UK Suspends 30 Arms Export Licenses to Israel

The UK has decided to suspend 30 out of 350 arms export licenses to Israel, citing concerns over potential violations of international humanitarian law, as reported by Reuters.

British Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced the suspension today, stating that these licenses cover items that could be used in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. However, the suspension does not affect components for F-35 fighter jets.

Lammy emphasized that this partial suspension would not significantly impact Israel's security.

He reassured that the UK remains committed to supporting Israel's right to self-defense under international law and will continue to collaborate with Israel on addressing the Iranian threat.

The decision follows a promise made by Lammy after the Labour Party's victory in the July elections to review arms sales to Israel to ensure compliance with international standards.

In response, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant expressed significant disappointment with the UK's decision. On the social media platform X, he criticized the UK's sanctions on arms export licenses to the Israeli defense establishment.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz also condemned the UK's decision, calling it "disappointing" and suggesting it sends a "mixed message" to Hamas and its Iranian supporters.