HRW, Amnesty & Oxfam challenge UK arms sales to Israel

In a recent ruling by a UK judge, three prominent British human rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, and Oxfam, have been granted the opportunity to join a judicial review in the High Court concerning the UK government’s approval of arms sales to Israel. This decision allows them to provide evidence and testimonies in support of a claim seeking to halt arms exports to the country.

The move comes after data revealed that the UK had not revoked any arms export licenses to Israel since October. The government issued over 100 export licenses for arms transfers to Israel during this period, sparking concerns from various rights organizations.

Despite opposition from the Department for Business and Trade, HRW and Amnesty International successfully argued that their expertise and resources were essential in presenting relevant evidence to the court. All three organizations welcomed the ruling and expressed their commitment to highlighting Israeli violations of international law.

With ongoing conflicts in Gaza, these organizations aim to hold the UK government accountable for its role in arms sales and advocate for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian assistance. The decision marks a significant step in the fight for human rights and international law compliance.