Dowden maintains stance on UK arms sales to Israel
The deputy prime minister emphasized that the UK is holding Israel to a high standard.
Oliver Dowden has restated the foreign secretary’s advice on the UK’s arms exports to Israel remains unchanged amidst calls to halt sales.
Addressing broadcasters on Sunday morning, the deputy prime minister stated that the UK will not provide arms to Israel illegally.
He stressed the importance of holding Israel to a high standard.
Meanwhile, Foreign Secretary Lord David Cameron affirmed the UK’s support for Israel’s right to self-defence, with the caveat that support is not unconditional.
The Israel-Hamas war, sparked by Hamas terrorist attacks on Oct. 7, 2023, has been ongoing for six months.
Hamas terrorists have caused significant casualties, while Israel has faced criticism for its actions during the conflict.
Calls to cease military exports to Israel have escalated following claims of Israel’s lack of commitment to international humanitarian law.
The business secretary, responsible for export-control decisions, relies on advice from the foreign secretary regarding compliance with international law.
Mr. Dowden confirmed that Lord Cameron has not altered his guidance on arms exports to Israel.
When asked if Israel is abiding by the law, Mr. Dowden emphasized that Israel is combating Hamas, a terrorist group operating within civilian populations.
If advised of Israel’s breach of international law, the UK will act in accordance with its legal obligations concerning arms sales.
Mr. Dowden pointed out that while Israel has made mistakes, the UK will hold them accountable to a very high standard.
On the anniversary of the Oct. 7 attacks, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reiterated the UK’s support for Israel’s right to defend against Hamas.
Writing in The Sunday Times, Lord Cameron stressed the importance of Israel adhering to international humanitarian law.
Amidst calls for a ceasefire, the UK government continues to navigate the complexities of the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
