UK arms exports to Israel continue despite licence suspension

A recent report has uncovered that UK companies have continued to export military supplies to Israel, despite the suspension of export licenses by the British government in September of the previous year. Allegations have surfaced suggesting that the British Parliament has been deliberately misled about these exports.

According to the Palestinian Youth Movement, Progressive International, and Workers for a Free Palestine, the UK has sent 8,630 different munitions since the suspension took effect. These munitions fall under the category "Bombs, Grenades, Torpedoes, Mines, Missiles and Similar Munitions of War and Parts Thereof-Other."

Despite repeated assurances by Foreign Minister David Lammy and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds that the government had halted the direct supply of parts for F-35 fighter jets to Israel, evidence shows that shipments of components for these lethal jets have continued since September 2024, and they remain ongoing.

In September, Lammy announced the suspension of 29 arms export licenses out of 350, used during Israel's conflict with Gaza. He explained that the government found a "clear risk" that these licenses could be used to commit or facilitate violations of international humanitarian law. He further clarified that the remaining licenses covered civilian items like "goggles and helmets" for use by one of the UK’s closest allies.

However, the report claims that Lammy misled both Parliament and the public about the true scope of UK arms exports to Israel. Former Labour shadow Chancellor John McDonnell called for an explanation, stating that if the Parliament had been misled, it could lead to resignations and charges of complicity in war crimes.

Jeremy Corbyn, former leader of the Labour Party, demanded transparency, asserting that the public deserves to know the extent of the UK's involvement in Israel’s military operations.

The Foreign Office responded by reaffirming that the government had suspended licenses that could be used to commit serious violations of international law in Gaza. It claimed that most remaining licenses are for civilian purposes or re-export and are not involved in the Gaza conflict. The only exception is the F-35 program, due to its strategic role within NATO and broader international security concerns.

The UK government firmly opposed the expansion of Israel’s military operations in Gaza and called for an immediate return to negotiations, full implementation of the ceasefire agreement, the release of hostages, and a move towards lasting peace.