• International outcry over humanitarian violations in Gaza, the UK has approved 108 arms export licenses to Israel since October 2023.
• Oxfam, alongside Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, seeks a judicial review to halt these arms sales, arguing they perpetuate violence against Palestinians.
In a significant move, Oxfam has joined forces with other human rights organisations to challenge the UK government’s ongoing arms sales to Israel. Since the onset of Israel’s actions in Gaza last October, the UK has granted 108 arms export licenses, a decision met with widespread criticism from various human rights groups and international bodies for ignoring potential violations of international humanitarian law.
Emily Apple from the Campaign Against Arms Trade underscored the moral imperative of this challenge, stating that the UK’s stance implicitly condones Israel’s actions in Gaza. The review calls for a re-evaluation of the UK’s arms export policies to ensure they do not contribute to further violence and suffering.
The judicial review, backed by prominent groups such as Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and the Campaign Against Arms Trade, aims to halt these sales, emphasising the devastating impact on Palestinian civilians. This legal intervention highlights the growing international demand for accountability and the ‘protection of human rights in conflict zones’.
Oxfam highlighted evidence of the devastating impact of UK-supplied arms on Palestinian communities. This includes indiscriminate bombings and targeted attacks on civilian infrastructure, which have exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The organisation is calling for an immediate suspension of all arms sales to Israel until a thorough investigation can be conducted to ensure compliance with international law.
This legal battle comes amid increasing international pressure on Israel to halt its operations in Gaza and engage in meaningful talks. Human rights groups are urging the UK government to take a stand for justice and human rights by ending its arms sales. The outcome of this judicial review could set a significant precedent for the UK’s future arms export policies and its commitment to upholding international humanitarian law.
Potential Consequences if the UK Loses the Review
If the UK loses the judicial review, it could face significant legal and political ramifications. Firstly, it would likely be required to suspend all arms sales to Israel, sending a strong message about the UK’s stance on international humanitarian law. This could also influence other countries to reconsider their arms sales to Israel, potentially leading to broader international sanctions against the country. A ruling against the UK government could prompt a thorough review of its arms export policies, ensuring stricter compliance with international law in future decisions. This might lead to a significant reduction in arms exports not just to Israel but to other conflict zones where there is a risk of human rights violations.
Political Support in the UK
Support for the review is not uniform across the UK political landscape. The Labour Party has shown some support for pausing arms sales, though this stance has not been uniformly strong across the party. The shift only came after significant backlash from its Muslim voters.
The Green Party has been vocal in its opposition to UK arms sales to Israel, calling for an immediate ceasefire and the cessation of all arms exports. Green Party leaders have actively campaigned for a halt to these sales, emphasising the UK’s complicity in the ongoing violence in Gaza and urging broader sanctions against Israel.
The Workers Party of Britain has also expressed strong opposition to arms sales to Israel, advocating for an immediate suspension to sales and calling for comprehensive reviews of all arms export policies to ensure they do not contribute to human rights abuses.
Public Opinion on UK Arms Sales to Israel
The UK public has shown increasing opposition to the government’s arms sales. Recent polls indicate that a significant majority of Britons support halting these arms sales to Israel and implementing an immediate ceasefire.According to a YouGov poll commissioned by Action For Humanity, 62% of respondents believe the UK should stop exporting arms or parts to Israel. Similarly, a poll conducted by the Council for Arab-British Understanding (Caabu) and Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP) found that 55% of people support ending arms sales to Israel for the duration of the conflict, with only 13% opposing this measure.
The British public has not only expressed their views through polls but also through active participation in protests and advocacy campaigns. Large-scale demonstrations have been organised across the UK, with thousands marching to demand an end to the arms sales and to show solidarity with Palestinians. One of the largest protests saw nearly a million people taking to the streets of London.
What can we do to advocate our support?
Do not feel disheartened or discouraged by current events. As Muslims, we have numerous ways to make a positive impact. Reflect on the Hadith where Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said, “Help your brother, whether he is an oppressor or he is an oppressed one.” This guidance emphasises our duty to support justice.
We hold the power of du’ah, vital for seeking guidance and strength. Alongside prayer, we can engage in peaceful protests to raise awareness and stand up for justice. We also can influence policy by actively participating in civic processes, such as contacting MPs and political representatives to express opposition to arms sales and urging them to take a stand in Parliament. Additionally, utilising social media platforms to spread information about the humanitarian impact of arms sales can amplify our efforts. By combining our spiritual practices with tangible actions, we can contribute meaningfully to our communities and the broader world.
Let us remember that our faith calls us to be proactive in the face of injustice.
