Foreign Minister David Lammy announced that the UK will suspend 30 arms export licenses to Israel.
The decision targets licenses for equipment potentially used in the Gaza conflict, violating international humanitarian law. This action follows the Labour Party’s July election victory, after which Lammy committed to reviewing arms sales to ensure compliance with international standards.
Lammy clarified that this is not an all-encompassing ban or an embargo but a targeted suspension. Affected items include components for military aircraft such as fighter jets, helicopters, and drones.
UK’s Foreign Minister emphasized that British arms exports represent less than 1% of Israel’s total arms imports and assured that the suspension would not significantly impact Israel’s security.
Lammy reiterated the UK’s support for Israel’s right to self-defence in compliance with international law, highlighting that, unlike the U.S., the UK does not directly supply arms but rather grants licenses to companies which are vetted for legal compliance.
