The United Kingdom has suspended the export of dozens of weapons to Israel, citing concerns that the arms could be used to violate international law.
The British government announced on Monday that it was suspending approximately 30 out of 350 export licenses for equipment that includes components for military aircraft and drones, as well as items used for ground targeting.
The government stated that it believes the equipment “is for use in the current conflict in Gaza” and poses a “clear risk” that some could be used to “commit or facilitate a serious violation of international humanitarian law.”
While suspending the licenses, the UK government emphasized that this action was “not a determination of innocence or guilt” regarding Israel’s compliance with international law and was not an arms embargo.
In response, Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant expressed his “dishearten[ment]” with the British government’s decision to impose “sanctions” on the export licenses.
“This comes at a time when we fight a war on 7 different fronts – a war that was launched by a savage terrorist organization, unprovoked,” Gallant stated. “At a time when we mourn 6 hostages who were executed in cold blood by Hamas inside tunnels in Gaza. At a time when we fight to bring 101 hostages home.”
“I stand by our troops and security agencies working with immense courage, professionalism and moral values,” the statement continued. “We remain committed to defending the State of Israel and her people.”
Israel’s Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, asserted that the UK’s decision “sends a very problematic message” to the international community.
“Israel is a law-abiding state that operates in accordance with international law and has an independent and respected judicial system – we expect friendly countries, such as the UK, to recognize this all year-round, especially just days after Hamas terrorists executed six Israeli hostages, during intense negotiations for the release of the hostages and for a ceasefire, and in light of the recent threats by the Iranian regime to attack the State of Israel,” Katz stated.
The foreign minister expressed his hope that the “deep friendship” between Israel and the UK will continue in the future.
Meanwhile, President Biden asserted in comments to reporters that Israeli Prime Minister is not taking sufficient action to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas terrorists.
Following the murder of 23-year-old Israeli-American Hersh Goldberg-Polin and five other hostages by Hamas on Saturday, Biden and Vice President Harris assembled a hostage deal negotiating team in the Situation Room.
Digital’s Danielle Wallace and