UK Government restricts 30 out of 350 arms licenses to Israel

"The Government has today announced that it intends to restrict 30 out of 350 arms licenses to Israel, a welcome improvement. But sadly this is woefully inadequate. It is unconscionable that British-made weapons could be used in breach of international law in Gaza.

"Over 40,000 Palestinians have been killed and there remains no safe place in Gaza. We urge the Government to go further, and suspend arms export licenses to Israel in their entirety. The Government's criteria for arms exports are clear that licences should not be granted where there is a clear risk that the items might be used in violation of international humanitarian law. The Government must publish the legal advice it has received, in its entirety. Arms sales and transfers to Israel must stop and an immediate sustained ceasefire must begin. Lives depend on it."