Despite concerns about war crimes, spare parts for Israeli F-35 fighter jets continue to flow from a US-maintained international supply pool with no existing system to halt the process. Legal challenges in the UK, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Canada address the licensing of arms exports to Israel, including F-35 components from these countries.
While some parts have been suspended, monitoring the global supply chain for these high-tech weapons remains a challenge. The F-35’s supply chain operates on a “just-in-time” basis, making it feasible to track and suspend components destined for Israel via third states, but currently, no such system exists.
Arms control experts emphasize the importance of accountability and compliance with international law in the arms trade. Questions arise regarding the US Department of Defense’s willingness to prevent weapons parts from reaching potential human rights violators such as Israel.
The need for tighter controls and adherence to legal obligations under the Arms Trade Treaty is highlighted by various NGOs and experts. Implementing a system to ensure compliance with international law is seen as a essential step.