UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended his government’s recent decision to partially suspend arms exports to Israel, calling it “a legal decision” rather than a shift in policy. On Wednesday, Starmer clarified that the suspension of 30 out of 350 arms export licenses does not change the UK’s support for Israel’s right to self-defense.
Starmer explained that the decision followed a review by the foreign ministry, examining Israel’s conduct in its ongoing conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. This review started shortly after Starmer’s Labour party won a decisive victory over the Conservatives in early July.
“We remain committed to Israel’s right to defend itself, but we must uphold international law,” Starmer stated during the weekly Prime Minister’s Questions session in Parliament. He emphasized that this measure is a legal action in response to specific concerns about arms potentially being used in violations of humanitarian law.
The partial ban affects items like fighter aircraft, helicopters, and drones that could be used in the current Gaza conflict, but excludes parts for advanced F-35 stealth fighter jets. This decision has drawn criticism from Israel, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu calling it “shameful.”
Starmer also addressed concerns about a possible rift with the United States, stating that the UK had informed Washington of the decision prior to its announcement. US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby confirmed that the US had been notified and emphasized that each country has the sovereignty to decide its level of support for Israel.
In London, Starmer assured MPs that the UK’s allies understand the situation and that the decision reflects a nuanced approach to the Middle East conflict. His government continues to call for a ceasefire, expedite aid to Gaza, and demand the release of hostages taken by Hamas. Additionally, it has resumed funding for the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) and dropped a legal challenge related to international arrest warrants for Israeli officials, including Netanyahu.
