UK suspends exports of various weapons and technologies to Israel

Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced in the British Parliament the decision to suspend the export of certain types of weapons and equipment to Israel.

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The Foreign Secretary explained that this decision was based primarily on a legal analysis that showed that there was a "risk" that these weapons could be used in a way that violated humanitarian law.

Lammey also said that the suspension will affect only 30 of the 350 export licences, including components for military aircraft. The ban is likely to apply to the latest F-35I fighter jets, where the share of British components is more than 40%. Interestingly, these aircraft are equipped with Martin Baker ejection seats - there is no alternative to them in the world.

In addition, British companies also support the Israeli army's armoured vehicles and supply components for Merkavaq tanks, new Eitan armoured personnel carriers, and more. In general, Britain sells components for Israeli F-15, F-16, and F-35 fighters, helicopters, submarines, and body armour.

"This is not a complete ban. It's not an arms embargo," Lammey said.

Source: The New York Times