UK poised to suspend arms exports to Israel amid heightened tensions

The UK is anticipated to announce a suspension of some arms exports to Israel, Caliber.Az reports, citing British media.

The precise details of the proposed arms restrictions remain uncertain, but such a policy shift would represent a significant alteration in UK-Israel relations.

Israeli officials had expected the announcement as early as Tuesday; however, the recent escalation in regional tensions following the death of 12 Israeli children in a Hezbollah attack on July 27 may influence the timing of the announcement.

A UK government spokesperson stated that a review of Israel’s adherence to international humanitarian law is currently underway. This review follows a recent ruling by the International Court of Justice, which found that Israel’s settlement activities in the West Bank breach international law.

The potential arms suspension has reportedly stirred concern within the Israeli government. Recent UK policy decisions have reflected a tougher stance towards Israel, including the renewal of aid for UNRWA and the decision to drop a challenge against arrest warrants for Israeli officials by the International Criminal Court.

The UK has historically provided components for Israeli military equipment, including F-15, F-16, and F-35 fighter jets, as well as submarines and body armour. In the past year, arms exports to Israel were valued at approximately £18.2 million, with total exports since 2008 exceeding £576 million.