The United Kingdom has decided to suspend 30 out of 350 arms export licenses to Israel, citing concerns over a “clear risk” that these arms could be used in serious violations of international humanitarian law. This decision, announced by Foreign Secretary David Lammy, pertains to items that could potentially be used in the ongoing war in Gaza. However, the suspension does not apply to parts for F-35 fighter jets, and Lammy emphasised that the decision stops short of a complete arms embargo.

Lammy explained to parliament that the assessment he received left him with no choice but to suspend certain arms exports to Israel due to the risk of their involvement in breaches of international law. Despite this action, he reaffirmed the UK’s continued support for Israel’s right to self-defence in line with international legal standards. This partial suspension follows Lammy’s previous commitment to reviewing arms sales to Israel after the Labour Party’s victory in the general election.

In response, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz expressed disappointment with the UK’s decision, stating that it sends a troubling message to Hamas and its backers in Iran. Katz voiced concern that this action undermines Israel’s security, even though British arms exports represent less than 1% of Israel’s total arms imports. The suspended items include components for military aircraft such as fighter jets, helicopters, and drones, with the UK maintaining that it does not directly provide arms to Israel but rather grants licenses for sales by private companies, contingent on legal compliance.