Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has condemned the UK government’s decision to suspend some arms export licenses to Israel, labeling it as “shameful.” The UK foreign minister, David Lammy, announced on Monday that 30 out of 350 arms export licenses to Israel have been halted. This decision was made due to concerns that the equipment could be used to commit serious violations of international humanitarian law.
The suspension came shortly after Israeli forces recovered the bodies of six hostages from a tunnel in Gaza. Netanyahu expressed strong disapproval of the British move, asserting that it would not deter Israel’s resolve to combat Hamas. He emphasized that Hamas, which he describes as a genocidal terrorist organization, has already murdered 1,200 people, including 14 British citizens, and is still holding over 100 hostages.
Netanyahu accused the UK of undermining Israel’s efforts to defend itself and stated that Britain’s decision would only embolden Hamas. He asserted that Israel would continue its fight and secure its future regardless of British arms supplies.
The decision follows a review initiated after the Labour Party’s election victory in July, aimed at ensuring arms sales to Israel comply with international law. However, Lammy noted that British arms exports constitute less than 1% of Israel’s total arms supply and that the suspension would not significantly impact Israel’s security. The UK continues to support Israel’s right to self-defense.
Both Israeli and Palestinian leaders are under investigation for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity following the October 7 attacks by Hamas, which resulted in 1,200 deaths in southern Israel. The Israeli response in Gaza has reportedly caused more than 40,700 casualties, according to Palestinian health authorities.
Lammy clarified that the suspension was not a judgment on whether Israel had breached international law. Both Israeli and Palestinian leaders have rejected allegations of war crimes. The UK’s decision highlights the ongoing international debate over arms sales and humanitarian concerns in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.