The United Kingdom has decided to continue arms exports to Israel despite recent reviews of the Israeli military’s actions in Gaza. British ministers found no reason to suspend weapons exports after examining Israel’s bombardment of Gaza until April 24. The decision was finalized by Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch after Foreign Secretary David Cameron reviewed the latest advice.
The UK’s strict arms export control regime ensures that licenses are not granted if there is a clear risk of violating international law. However, UK ministers have called for a transparent inquiry into an Israeli attack on a displacement camp in Rafah, where over 40 people were killed.
Despite domestic pressure following the deaths of three British nationals in the World Central Kitchen convoy attack last month, UK officials have defended the small amount of defense exports to Israel. Anti-arms campaigners argue that the true figure could be higher due to opaque open licenses and the critical role of UK-made components in Israel’s war effort.
Israel launched its war on Gaza in response to Hamas’s Operation Al-Aqsa Storm, resulting in thousands of Palestinian casualties. The UK’s decision to continue arms exports to Israel underscores the complexities of international arms trade regulations.
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