UK Arms Export Suspension to Israel Sparks Controversy Amid National Mourning and Political Backlash

Defence Secretary John Healey stands by the decision to implement a partial embargo on weapons to Israel, while Priti Patel slams it as a 'shocking betrayal'

Criticism mounts against the government for timing its announcement of a suspension in arms export licenses while Israel grieves the loss of six hostages.

Political correspondent @alixculbertson

Tuesday, September 3, 2024, 10:

The defense secretary has justified the decision to pause certain arms export licenses to Israel amidst disapproval from lawmakers, members of the Jewish community, and Israel itself.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy revealed on Monday that the UK will suspend 30 of its 350 arms export licenses to Israel.

Criticism has mounted over the timing of the announcement, which coincided with the funerals of six Israelis who were killed by Hamas following their captivity since last October.

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Defense Secretary John Healey stated that the decision was taken at this time due to the government's "legal obligation."

Speaking to Sky News on "Breakfast with Kay Burley," he stated, "As a government committed to the rule of law, given the situation in Gaza, we are legally obligated to reassess export licenses."

The decision centered on determining if there is a distinct possibility that any items exported from our nation could be associated with a severe breach of international humanitarian law.

"Evaluations indicated that approximately 30 parts used in military gear fell into this category."

He noted that this decision has historical precedents, citing instances when Margaret Thatcher halted arms exports in the 1980s and Gordon Brown followed suit in 2009.

He added that in each instance, when a ceasefire occurred, the suspensions were subsequently revoked.

Further reading: Labour faces internal disagreement over stance on arms sales to Israel and issues with winter fuel subsidies; quick assessment of extremism unveiled.

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"He emphasized that this is the more significant debate."

"Ultimately, the issues and worries surrounding this conflict will be resolved through an immediate ceasefire."

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He stated that the removal of the suspension does not hinge on a ceasefire.

He also noted, "Should the situation in Gaza evolve to a point where the risk of violating international humanitarian law diminishes, the current suspensions on these licenses could be reconsidered and potentially rescinded."

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Israel's Defense Secretary Yoav Gallant expressed strong disappointment over the government's decision, noting it was particularly distressing as the country battles on multiple fronts and grieves the loss of six hostages.

Ex-Conservative Home Secretary Dame Priti Patel criticized the decision sharply, labeling it "appalling" and charged Labour with politicizing Israel's security on a day of mourning.

"She added that this alarming breach of trust with a major UK ally is a dreadful sign of how the UK handles national security under this ineffective prime minister."

The Board of Deputies of British Jews expressed concerns that the timing could potentially convey a hazardous notion to Hamas and other enemies of the UK, suggesting that despite committing heinous acts condemned by the UK government, they could still witness Israel being criticized.

Criticism has been directed at the government for its recent policy shifts regarding Israel, particularly after it reinstated financial support to a UN agency that aids Palestinians, a move that was opposed by Israel.

Sir Keir Starmer has withdrawn the former administration's opposition to the International Criminal Court's efforts to issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his defense minister.

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