In a notable disclosure, Alicia Kearns, chair of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, has brought to light that the UK government has been advised by its legal experts that Israel may have violated international humanitarian law. Despite this advice, the government has yet to make a public announcement on the matter and continues its arms exports to Israel.
International laws mandate that countries must halt arms exports if there’s a significant risk those weapons could be used to commit or facilitate grave violations of humanitarian law, human rights, or other serious crimes. Kearns’s assertion points to a dissonance between legal advice received and the actions (or inactions) of the UK government regarding its dealings with Israel.
The context of this legal advice is critical, especially following a legally binding order from the International Court of Justice demanding Israel to enhance aid flow into Gaza. The court’s decision emerges from allegations against Israel for purportedly committing acts of genocide, a charge strongly refuted by Israel. Israel maintains its actions are in self-defense against attacks from Hamas on October 7.
Further accusations have been leveled against Israel for allegedly infringing international law by restricting access to essentials like water, electricity, and food in Gaza, in addition to failing to administer aid as the occupying power. Additionally, the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) found Israel in violation of international law following the killing of two journalists in Lebanon last October.
In response to these developments, Lord David Cameron, the Foreign Secretary, expressed frustration over delays in aid entering Gaza, attributing “arbitrary denials” and identifying the Israeli government as a principal obstacle to the delivery of aid. The Foreign Office maintains that the advice on Israel’s adherence to international humanitarian law is under continuous review and informs ministerial decisions, such as export license considerations. However, the specifics of this legal advice remain confidential.
This situation underscores a complex dilemma faced by the UK government, balancing legal obligations and international relations amid escalating humanitarian concerns in Gaza. The revelation calls for transparency and accountability, urging a reevaluation of the UK’s stance and actions in light of international law and humanitarian principles.
