UK Tightens Export Controls on Arms to Israel Amid Gaza Concerns

The United Kingdom has significantly escalated its restrictions on military product exports to Israel, freezing or rejecting over 80 export licenses. This move reflects a hardening of Britain's stance on the conflict with Palestinian Arabs, with current limitations nearly tripling the number seen in September 2024. At that time, under the Labour government led by Keir Starmer and Foreign Secretary David Lammy, approximately 30 out of 350 active licenses were suspended, primarily affecting offensive weaponry.

British Minister for the Middle East, Stephen Doughty, confirmed the suspension and rejection of more than 80 licenses for products potentially usable by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in Gaza. Doughty stated he personally reviewed all applications to prevent British goods from being used in the conflict. The UK has since refused over 50 new export licenses, indicating a notable shift in policy.

This tightening of controls follows a period of increased criticism from British officials. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband, speaking at the Labour Party conference in Liverpool, strongly condemned Israel's actions in Gaza, citing evidence of "war crimes." Miliband also voiced support for London's decision to ban trade with Israeli settlements in the West Bank.

The enhanced restrictions were reportedly implemented after Israel announced plans for a tender to build 1,234 housing units in the strategically significant E1 area. The Jewish Chronicle reported on the license freezes and rejections.