UK Defence Secretary Defends Suspension of Arms Exports to Israel Amid Backlash
UK Defence Secretary John Healey defended the British government’s decision to suspend around 30 arms export licences to Israel, following criticism from Tel Aviv and Jewish leaders. Despite the suspension, Healey assured that Israel’s security would not be compromised.
The suspension affects licences that could potentially violate international humanitarian law amid the ongoing Gaza conflict. These include exports of military aircraft components, naval systems, and targeting equipment. Out of approximately 350 licences, 30 were suspended after a review by the UK government.
Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis expressed shock at the decision, especially in light of recent terrorist attacks, including the murder of six hostages. Israel’s Defence Minister, Yoav Gallant, also condemned the timing of the suspension, calling it “unwelcome.”
Healey, however, reiterated the UK’s unwavering support for Israel’s right to self-defence and informed Gallant of the suspension prior to its public announcement. He explained that the government had a legal duty to ensure compliance with international law when issuing arms export licences.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who announced the suspension, stated that the review could not confirm whether Israel had breached international humanitarian law in Gaza, necessitating the temporary halt.
Critics, including Phil Rosenberg, president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, and former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, voiced concern over the decision, arguing that it sent a negative message and penalised Israel at a critical moment.
