The National Jewish Assembly (NJA) strongly condemns the UK government’s decision to suspend arms sales to Israel at a time when the country is mourning the tragic deaths of six Israeli citizens who were brutally murdered by Hamas after being held hostage in Gaza. The timing of this decision is not only deeply insulting but also signals a disturbing lack of moral clarity and support for a key ally.
NJA Vice Chairman Laurence Julius delivered a scathing rebuke of the UK government’s recent decision, stating, “This is not the act of an ally. Israel is under existential threat, being attacked on seven fronts by Iran and its proxies. To jeopardise in any way Israel’s ability to defend itself is a cowardly act that shows total moral bankruptcy.”
Julius continued, “The justification given—that these arms ‘might be used to commit a serious violation of international humanitarian law’—is shocking. Is the UK denying Israel the right to self-defence? This decision could backfire badly, not just with Israel but with other partners, impacting future high-tech, AI, and defence cooperation, and jobs in Britain.”
The decision to suspend around 30 of the 350 arms export licences under the guise of preventing “potential” violations of international law is a weak and misguided attempt to appease anti-Israel sentiment. There is always the “potential” for arms to be used in violation of international law, and the UK government is blatantly hypocritical in its willingness to supply known human rights violators, including Qatar and Saudi Arabia, with arms – but not Israel.
The NJA calls on the UK government to reverse this ill-advised suspension immediately. It is crucial that Britain stands firm with Israel in the face of terrorism, rather than capitulating to the pressures of pro-Palestine antisemites.
This is not just about arms sales; it is about the principles of justice, security, and the moral duty to support a democratic ally in its fight against terror. The NJA urges the UK government to reconsider its stance and to demonstrate unwavering support for Israel in its hour of need.
