UK suspends some arms exports to Israel

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has announced that the UK is suspending approximately 30 export licences for military equipment, following its review of Israel’s compliance with international humanitarian law in the course of its military operations in Gaza.

The 30 licences (out of a total of around 350) include components for military aircraft, helicopters, drones and items which facilitate ground targeting. Officials say the government has concluded there is a clear risk that items exported to Israel might be used in serious violations of international humanitarian law.

Officials emphasise that this is not an arms embargo and that the government’s assessment is not designed to prejudge the outcomes of work by international courts, such as the ICJ and ICC.