United Kingdom tightens restrictions on military exports to Israel
The increase follows the UK’s September 2024 decision to suspend about 30 export licences for items it assessed could be used in military operations in Gaza
The British government has sharply increased restrictions on military exports to Israel over the past two years, according to The Jewish Chronicle.
Citing export licensing data, the newspaper reported that the number of licences refused or suspended has nearly tripled, affecting dozens of proposed shipments of equipment and components.
The increase follows the UK’s September 2024 decision to suspend about 30 export licences for items it assessed could be used in military operations in Gaza. Ministers said there was a risk the equipment could be used to commit or facilitate serious violations of international humanitarian law.
The restrictions stop short of a blanket ban. Britain has halted direct exports of F-35 fighter jet components to Israel while continuing to supply parts to the international F-35 programme, which supports aircraft operated by several allied countries.