The UK government refutes claims of a “secret arms embargo” on Israel, stating there have been no changes in its approach to export licences. Reports from the Daily Mail suggested civil servants had halted new arms export applications to Israel pending a review by Foreign Secretary David Lammy. However, the Department for Business and Trade clarified that applications are still being reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Emphasizing the importance of upholding legal obligations, the spokesperson highlighted the ongoing review of export licence criteria. Despite speculation, no official decision regarding exports to Israel has been made under the new Labour government. Data released by the previous administration in May revealed no UK export licences had been revoked post-Hamas-led attacks in October. Additionally, over 100 export licences for weapons and military equipment to Israel were approved.
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