London Mayor Sadiq Khan has joined over 50 Labour MPs in demanding an immediate end to UK arms sales to Israel following a deadly drone attack in Gaza. The official Labour stance, stated by shadow foreign secretary David Lammy, is for a halt in arms sales only if there is a risk of serious breaches of international law. However, Khan and others are calling on the government to publish its legal advice on the matter and use its influence to hold the Israeli government accountable for their actions.
UK Arms Sales to Israel Condemned by Labour MPs and London Mayor
In the wake of a deadly drone attack in Gaza, London Mayor Sadiq Khan and over 50 Labour MPs have demanded an immediate end to UK arms sales to Israel. This call comes amid growing concerns over the potential use of British-made weapons in human rights violations.
Background
Israel has long been one of the UK's largest arms recipients, with sales reaching £29 million in 2020. However, these transactions have come under increased scrutiny in recent years due to concerns about Israel's use of excessive force in occupied Palestinian territories.
In May 2021, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict escalated into a violent 11-day war, resulting in the deaths of over 250 Palestinians and 13 Israelis. The UK government initially condemned the violence, but did not suspend arms sales.
Current Developments
The recent drone attack in Gaza has reignited the debate over UK arms sales to Israel. Khan and the Labour MPs are calling on the government to publish its legal advice on the matter and use its influence to hold Israel accountable for its actions.
Official Labour Stance
Shadow Foreign Secretary David Lammy has stated that Labour's official stance is to halt arms sales only if there is a risk of serious breaches of international law. However, Khan and others are pushing for a more stringent policy.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Why are people calling for an end to UK arms sales to Israel?
Concerned that British-made weapons are being used in human rights violations against Palestinians in occupied territories.
2. What is the official Labour Party's stance on arms sales to Israel?
To halt sales only if there is a risk of serious breaches of international law.
3. What is the UK government's position on arms sales to Israel?
Has not suspended sales despite concerns over human rights violations.
4. Has the UK ever suspended arms sales to Israel before?
Yes, in 2009, following the killing of 14 British citizens in an Israeli raid on a Gaza-bound aid convoy.
5. What are the potential consequences of suspending arms sales to Israel?
Could damage the UK-Israel relationship and increase regional tensions.
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