UK government urged to clarify status of arms licenses to Israel amid Gaza war review

Rights groups are pressing the British government to clarify whether it continues to issue new arms licenses to Israel after reports suggested a suspension.

The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) stated there has been "no change" in policy, pending a review ordered by Foreign Secretary David Lammy over potential legal concerns related to the licenses amid Israel's war on Gaza, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

Campaign Against Arms Trade (CAAT) criticized the government’s inaction, warning it enables Israel's actions against Palestinians and undermines public interest. The review is seen by some as a delay tactic, particularly regarding the export of F-35 components used by Israel.

The issue has been raised in parliament throughout Israel's war on Gaza, with accusations of war crimes and genocide. Despite ongoing legal scrutiny and international pressure, the UK government maintains Israel’s “right to defend itself” but has initiated a review of its licensing criteria. CAAT calls for an immediate arms embargo on Israel to end what it describes as "obscene slaughter."