UK Halts Some Arms Shipments to Israel Amid Gaza Ceasefire Calls, Experts Say More Needed

On Monday, the UK announced it would suspend the export of certain arms to Israel, citing concerns over the potential misuse of these weapons leading to serious violations of humanitarian law. This decision represents a notable shift among some members of the international community regarding military support for Israel amidst ongoing conflict.

This announcement from the UK follows a tragic report that Israel had recovered the bodies of six hostages killed by Hamas in a Gaza tunnel, intensifying calls for a cease-fire from both sides. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy clarified that there is a “clear risk” associated with the arms that could contribute to international humanitarian law violations.

The suspension affects about 30 out of 350 export licenses, which include components for aircraft and drones. Sam Perlo-Freeman, a coordinator for the Campaign Against Arms Trade, described the UK’s action as a “belated, but welcome move,” though he criticized the decision not to suspend materials related to F-35 fighter jets as “outrageous and unjustifiable.”

In response to the UK’s decision, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant expressed his disappointment on social media, stating that this action comes at a difficult time for Israel, which is engaged in combat on multiple fronts. He highlighted the mourning for the hostages who were killed, underscoring the urgency of securing the return of the remaining abductees.

As the week unfolded, the pressure on Israel to negotiate a cease-fire intensified. US President Joe Biden remarked that he did not believe Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had made sufficient efforts to reach an agreement with Hamas. This sentiment reflects a growing concern within the international community regarding the escalating conflict.

Simultaneously, protests erupted across Israel over the weekend as citizens reacted to the news of the hostages’ deaths. Demonstrators called for Netanyahu’s government to negotiate a resolution with Hamas to ensure the safe return of those still held captive. One protestor, Niv Keidar, articulated the mix of grief and anger felt by many, emphasizing the urgent need for a deal to rescue the remaining hostages.

The conflict, which reignited on October 7 after a wave of Hamas attacks that left approximately 1,200 Israelis dead, has since escalated to devastating levels. Reports indicate that over 40,000 Palestinians have lost their lives in Israel’s military response, and the Gaza Health Ministry notes that around 75% of the Gazan population has been displaced.

International condemnation has followed Israel’s military actions, particularly due to their impact on civilians. The situation has also heightened tensions in the region, drawing in countries like Iran and its proxy group in Lebanon, Hezbollah.

While the UK’s arms export decision may not drastically alter the course of the ongoing war, it carries significant symbolic weight on the global political stage. Josh Paul, a senior advisor for the nonprofit Democracy for the Arab World Now, remarked that the UK’s action represents a “critical step” in holding Israel to account, contrasting it with what he perceives as the US’s growing isolation on the issue.

Despite increasing pressure, Netanyahu remains steadfast, especially regarding the presence of Israeli troops in the Philadelphi corridor, a vital strip of land bordering Egypt. He has categorically stated that withdrawing troops from this area is not an option, a position that could prolong the ongoing hostilities.

During a press conference, Netanyahu articulated his view that controlling the Philadelphi corridor is essential, indicating that any negotiations would not include troop withdrawal as a concession.

The situation remains fluid, with dynamics evolving rapidly as international and domestic actors push for a resolution to the ongoing crisis.

Source: Business Insider