UK Defence Secretary Refutes Boris Johnson’s Claim on Arms Sales Suspension and Israel
The UK government has faced intense scrutiny after suspending some arms sales to Israel amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict. Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced on Monday that the UK would temporarily suspend 30 arms export licenses to Israel following a government review of the ongoing situation. This decision has ignited a political debate, with varying opinions on both sides of the issue.
Boris Johnson’s Accusation
Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson strongly criticized the government’s decision, accusing the Labour-led government of “abandoning Israel” during a crucial time in its conflict with Hamas. Johnson expressed his discontent on social media, suggesting that the UK’s move might signal support for Hamas. His comments have drawn the ire of many, with Johnson stating:
“Hamas is still holding many innocent Jewish hostages while Israel tries to prevent a repeat of the 7th October massacre. Why are Lammy and Starmer abandoning Israel? Do they want Hamas to win?”
UK Chief Rabbi’s Concerns
Adding to the criticism, the UK’s Chief Rabbi, Sir Ephraim Mirvis, expressed his concern about the decision. He stated that suspending arms sales at this juncture might falsely suggest that Israel is in breach of international humanitarian law, which he strongly denies. Rabbi Mirvis also highlighted that the timing of the announcement was unfortunate, coming soon after Israel had buried six hostages killed by Hamas. He expressed concern that this decision might embolden Israel’s enemies, particularly Hamas and Iran’s allied forces, rather than promote peace in the region.
Human Rights Groups Respond
While Johnson and Rabbi Mirvis voiced their discontent, human rights organizations criticized the UK government for not going far enough. Groups such as Oxfam GB and ActionAid UK described the suspension as “window dressing” and called for a more substantial approach. They urged the government to fully reconsider its military support for Israel, arguing that continued arms sales would make the UK complicit in alleged human rights violations taking place in Gaza.
Defence Secretary’s Rebuttal
In response to Johnson’s claims, UK Defence Secretary John Healey categorically rejected the accusation that the arms suspension means the UK is “abandoning” Israel. Healey reaffirmed the UK’s steadfast support for Israel’s right to self-defense, noting that the suspension of some arms licenses would not materially impact Israel’s security. He emphasized that the decision was guided by legal obligations, not a shift in strategic alliance.
“The UK’s support for Israel’s right to self-defense remains unshakable despite the announcement,” Healey said in an interview with Times Radio. He reassured the Israeli Defence Minister, Yoav Gallant, that the UK’s commitment to Israel’s security remains firm. Healey highlighted past collaborations, including the UK’s assistance in intercepting Iranian missiles aimed at Israel, as proof of this enduring alliance.
Political Fallout
This arms suspension comes at a sensitive time for Labour, whose stance on the Israel-Gaza conflict has drawn significant backlash from both pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian communities. Keir Starmer, the Labour leader and current Prime Minister, has struggled to balance these opposing views. His initial response to the Israel-Gaza conflict, particularly comments about Israel’s right to cut off water supplies to Gaza, caused uproar among Labour’s Muslim supporters. This backlash cost Labour several key seats during recent elections, raising questions about the party’s ability to maintain the support of its traditional base while in power.
International Reaction
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has condemned the UK’s decision as “shameful” in light of the ongoing conflict with Hamas. He argued that the arms suspension would embolden terrorists and not deter Israel from defending itself. Netanyahu stated, “This shameful decision will not change Israel’s determination to defeat Hamas, a genocidal terrorist organization… Israel is pursuing a just war with means.”
Despite the controversy, the UK government is expected to stand by its decision while continuing to assert its commitment to Israel’s security.
The UK’s suspension of arms sales to Israel has sparked a heated debate among political leaders, religious figures, human rights groups, and international allies. While the Labour government argues that its decision is legally required, critics like Boris Johnson and Netanyahu accuse it of weakening Israel during a critical period. As the Israel-Gaza conflict rages on, this move highlights the delicate balance of international diplomacy and domestic politics the UK must navigate in an increasingly polarized world.
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