As the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues, several countries have re-evaluated their arms sales to Israel. Here’s an overview of how different nations have responded to the ongoing war in Gaza:
United Kingdom
The UK has recently shifted its stance on arms sales to Israel. On September 2, 2024, Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced the suspension of 30 out of 350 existing arms licenses. This decision follows a two-month review revealing that Israel had failed to ensure the delivery of essential supplies to Gaza’s population. However, UK-made parts for F35 fighter jets, which Israel utilizes, remain unaffected by this suspension. Critics argue that this measure is insufficient.
Italy
In January 2024, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani declared that Italy would halt new arms shipments to Israel following the October 7 Hamas attack. Despite this, existing agreements are still being honored. Italy, while the third-largest supplier of military equipment to Israel, accounts for less than 1% of Israel’s total arms imports, according to Action on Armed Violence.
Spain
Spain has also taken a firm stance against arms sales to Israel. In January 2024, Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares confirmed that no arms had been sold to Israel since October 7. By May 2024, Spain went a step further, banning ships carrying weapons to Israel from docking at Spanish ports. Spain has been vocal in its criticism of the Gaza offensive.
Canada
In March 2024, Canada’s parliament passed a non-binding resolution to halt future military sales to Israel. Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly confirmed that arms shipments would cease, marking a significant shift in Canada’s stance.
Belgium
Belgium has imposed restrictions on arms sales to Israel at the regional level. Additionally, the Belgian government has advocated for an EU-wide ban on arms exports to Israel.
Netherlands
A Dutch court ruled in February 2024 that the government must stop supplying F35 fighter jet parts to Israel due to potential violations of international humanitarian law. However, this ruling does not extend to components sent to other countries, such as the US, which might then be delivered to Israel.
Countries with No Ban on Arms Sales
United States
The US remains Israel’s largest military supporter, providing approximately 69% of its foreign-sourced weapons. Despite President Joe Biden’s criticism of Israel’s bombing campaign, his administration has not halted arms sales. While there was a temporary suspension of heavy bombs in May 2024, some deliveries have resumed as of July 2024.
Germany
Germany is a major arms supplier to Israel, contributing about 30% of global arms exports to the country. These include anti-tank weapons and ammunition. Germany’s support is deeply rooted in its historical responsibility for the Holocaust.
Denmark
Denmark is involved in the F35 program and is currently contesting a court application from rights groups seeking to block arms sales to Israel. The outcome of this legal battle will be crucial in determining Denmark’s future arms trade policies with Israel.
As international scrutiny of arms sales to Israel intensifies, these actions reflect growing concerns over the conflict’s humanitarian impact and the ethical considerations of arms trade.
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