UK Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron has stated that a ban on selling arms to Israel would only strengthen Hamas and that the UK will not follow the US in halting some arms sales. While expressing concerns about civilian casualties and humanitarian aid, he argued that the UK’s arms sales to Israel are minimal (1%) and that Israel must do more to protect civilians.
Labour’s Jonathan Ashworth called for an immediate ceasefire and an end to UK-made arms being used in Rafah, warning of a catastrophic outcome if a full-scale offensive occurs.
The US has announced it will not supply weapons if Israel invades Rafah, citing concerns about mass civilian casualties and a humanitarian crisis. Israel has vowed to proceed with operations despite international warnings.
Britain’s foreign secretary said halting arms exports to Israel is “not a wise path” and would only strengthen Hamas
Lord Cameron dismissed the idea of British boots on the ground in Gaza, focusing instead on maximizing British pressure to help civilians and secure hostage releases. Labour has shifted its position on Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire after previously backing a humanitarian pause.
The UK government faces criticism for its arms sales to Israel, with Labour accusing it of aiding and abetting war crimes. Labour MP Zarah Sultana argued that the scale of arms sales does not matter, as the UK is still contributing to violations of international humanitarian law.
The government’s Strategic Export Licensing Criteria prevents weapons sales if there is a clear risk of serious violations, but Labour claims this is not being upheld. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with over 35,000 people killed and 78,000 wounded since October. The UK must sail across its approach carefully to avoid exacerbating the crisis.
