UK to Suspend 30 Arms Licenses to Israel

The United Kingdom will suspend 30 out of 350 arms licenses to Israel, British Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced on Monday, citing concerns that Israel could misuse them in the Gaza war.

It is with regret that I inform the House today the assessment I have received leaves me unable to conclude anything other than that for certain UK arms exports to Israel, there does exist a clear risk that they might be used to commit or facilitate a serious violation of international humanitarian law.
—David Lammy

He clarified that this is not a “blanket ban” nor “an arms embargo.” But some members of Parliament want to suspend all licenses to Israel.

These licenses, which allow English companies to sell arms to Israel, are a substitute for direct government involvement. The 30 suspended licenses will affect the supply of components for helicopters, fighter aircraft, drones and equipment used in ground targeting.

Response: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded in a string of posts on X.

Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson also objected to the decision.

Influence: It is worth noting that Downing Street confirmed the UK government had “significant engagement” with the United States and other allies ahead of Lammy’s announcement.

Furthermore, a Labour source told Jewish News Syndicate that the UK’s decision may have been influenced by the U.S. agenda to increase pressure on Israel.

Drifting brothers: Britain and the U.S. are failing to help their brother Israel in its time of need; this is prophesied to continue.

Referring to these two nations as Israel and to the Middle Eastern nation as Judah, Zechariah 11:14 says, “Then I cut asunder mine other staff, even Bands, that I might break the brotherhood between Judah and Israel.”

Learn more: Read “Israel: A Brother Betrayed.”