UK Expands Arms Embargo on Israel, Tripling Export License Restrictions

The United Kingdom has significantly expanded its arms embargo against Israel, tripling the number of restricted export licenses to over 80, according to a report in The Jewish Chronicle. This move intensifies the restrictions first announced in September 2024, when around 30 licenses were suspended. The expanded policy creates a "double lock" on defense exports, as stated by Middle East Minister Stephen Daubney, who personally reviewed each license to prevent the use of British arms in Gaza.

The new criteria consider not only potential violations of international humanitarian law but also the "illegality of the occupation." Daubney confirmed that over 80 licenses have been suspended or refused to date, emphasizing the stricter oversight on exports to Israel.

Despite the broader embargo, critical components for the international F-35 fighter jet program remain exempt. Daubney defended this decision, citing the necessity for the UK's and its allies' security, warning that removing these parts from the global supply could severely impact the program. He clarified that while direct F-35 exports to Israel have ceased, manufactured parts are still supplied to the global F-35 stockpile.

However, Emily Thornberry, Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, proposed an alternative. She suggested that Britain could continue supplying equipment to the F-35 program but with a stipulation that British-made parts not be used in aircraft destined for Israel. Thornberry advocated for adopting a Dutch model, where components are shipped with explicit instructions prohibiting their use in planes sent to Israel, framing the issue as political rather than purely legal.