Shameful to Call for UK to End Arms Sales to Israel, Says Boris Johnson

Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has publicly expressed his strong opposition to calls for the UK to cease arms sales to Israel. Johnson believes that such a move would be detrimental to the interests of the UK and detrimental to Israel’s security in its ongoing conflict with Hamas.

Concerns Raised by Political Parties and MPs

Johnson’s comments come in response to mounting pressure from UK political parties, including the Liberal Democrats, the Scottish National Party (SNP), and some members of both the Labour and Conservative parties. These groups have urged the UK to reassess its support for Israel and question the legality and ethics of continued arms sales.

Confidential Review of Israel’s Adherence to International Law

The UK Foreign Office, in response to the calls for reassessment, has stated that it regularly reviews and keeps confidential advice on Israel’s adherence to international law. The office has emphasized that decisions on arms sales licenses are made based on the Strategic Export Licensing Criteria.

In Depth: Johnson’s Perspective on the Conflict

Writing in a Daily Mail column, Johnson argues that ending military support for Israel would equate to willingly desiring the military defeat of Israel and the victory of Hamas. He highlights that Hamas only needs to survive for victory, rebuilding and regrouping after each conflict, ultimately leading to long-term success. Johnson disagrees with the notion that ending arms sales to Israel would increase the chances of peace.

Expert Legal Advice and Criticism of Johnson’s Stance

Over 600 lawyers, including former Supreme Court justices, have written to the UK government and raised concerns about potential violations of international law and the plausible risk of genocide in Gaza due to continued weapon exports to Israel. These legal experts cast doubt on Johnson’s argument and express the urgent need to reassess arms sales to Israel.

UK Response to the Gaza Conflict

Reacting to Johnson’s remarks, a spokesperson for the Foreign Office stated that the government’s advice on Israel’s adherence to international humanitarian law is confidential. Export license decisions are made based on the advice received, and public announcements are made if existing licenses are suspended or revoked. The Foreign Office reminds that British arms sales to Israel are comparatively lower than those of other countries and significantly overshadowed by the US as Israel’s largest arms supplier.