A new report has revealed that British arms exports to Israel have quietly continued despite a government-announced suspension last year, raising serious concerns about transparency and potential complicity in war crimes.
According to a study by the Palestinian Youth Movement, Progressive International, and Workers for a Free Palestine, UK firms sent 8,630 separate munitions to Israel since September 2024 — including items classified under “bombs, grenades, missiles, and similar munitions of war.”
The findings directly contradict repeated claims in Parliament by Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds that the UK had halted direct arms shipments, including parts for F-35 fighter jets, amid concerns they could be used in violations of international law during Israel’s military operations in Gaza.
Lammy had previously confirmed the suspension of 29 export licences over a “clear risk” they might be used in attacks that breach humanitarian law. However, with over 350 licences still in effect — some involving components for the controversial F-35 programme — critics say the government hasn’t been truthful.
‘A Resigning Matter’
The report, which draws on data from Israel’s own tax authority, accuses UK ministers of misleading Parliament and the public.
“If Parliament has been misled, it’s not just a resigning matter — it could point to complicity in war crimes,” said former Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell. “The government has cloaked these arms deals in secrecy.”
Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn also demanded accountability: “The public deserves to know the true extent of the UK’s military cooperation with Israel. We won’t stop until the full truth is uncovered.”
Government Denies Allegations
Responding to the findings, the UK Foreign Office said only “relevant licences” had been suspended to prevent the potential misuse of UK weapons in Gaza. It insisted that most remaining licences support “civilian purposes or re-exports” and are unrelated to the ongoing conflict, except F-35 components, which the UK sees as part of broader NATO obligations.
“The suggestion that the UK is knowingly providing weapons for use in Gaza is misleading,” the statement read. The ministry reiterated its opposition to any further expansion of Israel’s military operations and called for renewed ceasefire talks and the release of hostages.
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