Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday, September 3, sharply criticized the British government’s decision to suspend some arms export licenses to Israel, calling it a “shameful decision.” This response follows British Foreign Minister David Lammy’s announcement on Monday that 30 out of 350 arms export licenses to Israel would be suspended due to the risk that the equipment could be used to commit serious violations of international humanitarian law, reported Reuters.
Netanyahu emphasized that the UK’s decision will not deter Israel from continuing its fight against Hamas, a genocidal terrorist organization responsible for the October 7 attack that killed 1,200 people, including 14 British citizens. “This shameful decision will not change Israel’s determination to defeat Hamas, a genocidal terrorist organization that savagely murdered 1,200 people on October 7, including 14 British citizens,” Netanyahu said in a social media post.
He added that Hamas is still holding over 100 hostages, including 5 British citizens. “Instead of standing with Israel, a fellow democracy defending itself against barbarism, Britain’s misguided decision will only embolden Hamas,” Netanyahu stated. “With or without British arms, Israel will win this war and secure our common future.”
The decision to suspend the export licenses came after Israeli forces recovered the bodies of six hostages from a tunnel in Gaza. However, British Foreign Minister Lammy pointed out that British arms exports make up less than 1% of the total weapons Israel receives and said the suspension would not materially impact Israel’s security. The UK continues to support Israel’s right to self-defense.
Both Israeli and Palestinian leaders are under investigation for alleged war crimes and crimes
