UK halts 30 arms export licenses to Israel amid humanitarian concerns
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London: The United Kingdom has immediately suspended 30 of its 350 arms export licenses to Israel, citing concerns that the equipment covered by these licenses might be used in ways that violate international humanitarian law.
This decision was announced by Foreign Minister David Lammy on Monday.
The suspension comes after the Labour Party, under new leadership, won the general election in July. Following the victory, Lammy committed to reviewing arms sales to Israel, a longstanding British ally, to ensure that they fully comply with international law.
Addressing the House of Commons, Lammy expressed his regret over the decision, stating, "The assessment I have received leaves me unable to conclude anything other than that for certain UK arms exports to Israel, there does exist a clear risk that they might be used to commit or facilitate a serious violation of international humanitarian law."