Quotes
Israel is a law-abiding state that operates in accordance with international law and has an independent and respected judicial system – we expect friendly countries, such as the UK, to recognize this all year-round, especially just days after Hamas terrorists executed six Israeli hostages, during intense negotiations for the release of the hostages and for a ceasefire, and in light of the recent threats by the Iranian regime to attack the State of Israel,
This comes at a time when we fight a war on 7 different fronts – a war that was launched by a savage terrorist organization, unprovoked,
I stand by our troops and security agencies working with immense courage, professionalism and moral values,
It is with regret that I inform the House (of Commons) today the assessment I have received leaves me unable to conclude anything other than that for certain UK arms exports to Israel, there does exist a clear risk that they might be used to commit or facilitate a serious violation of international humanitarian law,
We have not and could not arbitrate on whether or not Israel has breached international humanitarian law,
This is a forward looking evaluation, not a determination of innocence or guilt, and it does not prejudge any future determinations by the competent courts,
Israel's actions in Gaza continue to lead to immense loss of civilian life, widespread destruction to civilian infrastructure, and immense suffering,
This is not a blanket ban. This is not an arms embargo,
Lammy said as he addressed lawmakers in the House of Commons We do not take this decision lightly,
The Government will keep our position under review. Commitment to comply with international humanitarian law is not the only criteria in making export licensing decisions, we will continue to work with our allies to improve the situation. And foreign policy, of course, involves tough choices, but I will always seek to take such decisions inline with our principles."
This Government takes seriously its role in applying export licensing law reflecting the published criteria and the specific circumstances. But let me leave this House in no doubt, the UK continues to support Israel's right self defence in accordance with international law."
The UK continues to support Israel’s right to self-defence in accordance with international law,
But there is a deception here because there is a huge difference between a right to defend yourself and the genocide that Israel has been doing, so we haven’t heard from the British government a critique or criticism of what the Israeli government is doing in Gaza. But, anyway, I think its a good step,