In a legal setback for nonprofit groups, a British court ruled against halting the export of fighter jet components to Israel, emphasizing government discretion in such politically sensitive matters.
**U.K. Court Denies Nonprofits' Request to Block Fighter Jet Parts Exports to Israel**
**U.K. Court Denies Nonprofits' Request to Block Fighter Jet Parts Exports to Israel**
Nonprofit organizations seek legal intervention against Britain's arms trade with Israel, but the court defers to the government for decisions.
The High Court of England and Wales issued a judgment on Monday, stating that decisions around the continued supply of F-35 parts were beyond its judicial powers and rested with government officials. Nonprofits including Al-Haq and the Global Legal Action Network contended that the British government’s arms exports could contravene humanitarian laws, particularly concerning the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Their arguments, supported by major organizations like Amnesty International and Oxfam, were put forth during an intensive four-day hearing, focusing on allegations that Britain's actions could potentially support offenses amounting to genocide or war crimes.
Despite a partial arms sales suspension initiated last September, which limited certain licenses due to concerns over possible violations of international law, the government maintained licenses for items deemed not currently utilized in the Gaza conflict. Officials defended the continuation of the F-35 program, asserting it contributes to regional and international security frameworks. The ruling indicates that future deliberations regarding military supplies to Israel will remain a government prerogative rather than a matter for judicial review.
As public protests unfolded outside the Royal Courts of Justice, many activists decried the court’s decision to shield governmental arms trading practices from judicial examination, igniting calls for a more accountable and humanitarian-focused approach to international arms sales.
Despite a partial arms sales suspension initiated last September, which limited certain licenses due to concerns over possible violations of international law, the government maintained licenses for items deemed not currently utilized in the Gaza conflict. Officials defended the continuation of the F-35 program, asserting it contributes to regional and international security frameworks. The ruling indicates that future deliberations regarding military supplies to Israel will remain a government prerogative rather than a matter for judicial review.
As public protests unfolded outside the Royal Courts of Justice, many activists decried the court’s decision to shield governmental arms trading practices from judicial examination, igniting calls for a more accountable and humanitarian-focused approach to international arms sales.
