UK uncertain on halting arms sales to Israel, says report

UK Attorney General’s Decision on Arms Sales to Israel

According to a report in The Guardian, Britain’s Attorney General Richard Hermer has stated that he cannot approve a decision to ban arms sales to Israel without knowing if their use would breach international law. The UK government’s stance is to not export weapons that could be used in violation of international law.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy supports the sale of defensive arms to Israel for its self-defense. Exporters seeking licenses to sell to Israel are currently on hold until a decision on which arms would be barred from sale is made.

There is ongoing assessment to determine Israel’s compliance with international law. The UK exports £18 million of military equipment to Israel annually, raising concerns in Jerusalem that any suspension of sales could lead to further restrictions.

The Labour government is unsure if they could defend a definition of defensive weapons in court. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is involved in the discussions.