London: On Monday, Britain announced it would immediately suspend 30 out of 350 arms export licenses to Israel due to concerns that the equipment might be used in serious violations of international humanitarian law, prompting criticism from Israeli officials. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy clarified that this suspension does not constitute a blanket ban or an arms embargo but pertains specifically to items with potential misuse risks during the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

Lammy expressed regret over the decision, stating that the assessment he received led him to believe there is a significant risk that some UK arms exports to Israel could be used to facilitate or commit serious violations of international humanitarian law. Despite this action, Lammy reaffirmed the UK’s support for Israel’s right to self-defense under international law. Following the Labour Partys election victory in July, Lammy had committed to reviewing arms sales to ensure they adhered to international legal standards.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.