UK Set to Release Legal Advice Summary on Arms Sales to Israel
The British government is ready to publish a summary of legal advice that shows no clear risks that arms sales to Israel will breach international humanitarian law. Deputy Foreign Secretary Andrew Mitchell indicated that the government's assessment of Israel’s IHL compliance remains unchanged despite evacuations in Gaza. Meanwhile, the PCS union is considering legal action against the government's arms export licenses.
The British government is preparing to publish a summary of its legal advice, indicating no clear risks that selling arms to Israel will lead to a breach of international humanitarian law (IHL).
Deputy Foreign Secretary Andrew Mitchell committed to reviewing what more details can be offered about the IHL assessments regarding Israel and Gaza.
Despite previous refusals to publish any legal advice, the release comes following a submission by the Foreign Office and a similar move by the US.
Mitchell, before the business select committee, indicated that the evacuation of 800,000 Palestinians from Rafah in Gaza has not altered the UK's IHL compliance assessment of Israel.
During a 90-minute session, Mitchell disclosed that an April 8 assessment did not consider evidence post-January.
Minister Alan Mak announced upcoming updated figures on arms export licenses, and former PM David Cameron criticized the International Criminal Court's pursuit of Israeli leaders.
Amidst this, the PCS union claimed civil servants might seek legal action against the government's arms export policies.
Deputy Foreign Secretary Andrew Mitchell committed to reviewing what more details can be offered about the IHL assessments regarding Israel and Gaza.
Despite previous refusals to publish any legal advice, the release comes following a submission by the Foreign Office and a similar move by the US.
Mitchell, before the business select committee, indicated that the evacuation of 800,000 Palestinians from Rafah in Gaza has not altered the UK's IHL compliance assessment of Israel.
During a 90-minute session, Mitchell disclosed that an April 8 assessment did not consider evidence post-January.
Minister Alan Mak announced upcoming updated figures on arms export licenses, and former PM David Cameron criticized the International Criminal Court's pursuit of Israeli leaders.
Amidst this, the PCS union claimed civil servants might seek legal action against the government's arms export policies.
