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Thousands of demonstrators gathered outside 10 Downing Street on Friday, demanding the UK government halt arms exports to Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Protesters, organized by groups like the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC), carried banners condemning Israeli actions and accusing the UK of complicity in the suffering of Palestinians.
The protest follows recent statements from Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who labeled Israel’s actions in Gaza as “egregious” and the suffering of Palestinians as “abominable.” However, demonstrators argue that words are not enough and are demanding concrete action, specifically an end to arms sales, Daily Dazzling Dawn understands.
John Rees, a political activist, academic, and journalist, addressed the crowd, stating, "We demand that they turn those words into action. Stop arming Israel." The PSC echoed this sentiment, calling for immediate government action to end complicity in what they describe as "Israel’s genocide against the Palestinian people."
UK Arms Sales Under Scrutiny
Despite the growing outcry, the UK has continued to approve arms export licenses to Israel, including components for US-made F-35 fighter jets used in the conflict. While the government announced a partial suspension of some arms export licenses in September 2024, critics point out that the overall supply of weapons to Israel has actually increased.
Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, who attended the rally, highlighted the contradiction between government rhetoric and policy. He is set to submit a Gaza (Independent Public Inquiry) Bill in the House of Commons on June 4, seeking a formal investigation into UK complicity in potential war crimes in Gaza.
Why does the UK continue to support and sell arms to Israel?
The question of why the UK continues to support and sell arms to Israel, despite expressing concern over the situation in Gaza, is complex. Analysts suggest the government's position is influenced by a combination of factors:
Longstanding political and strategic alliance: The UK and Israel have a long-standing relationship characterized by close cooperation on security, intelligence, and diplomatic matters. This alliance often takes precedence over concerns about specific Israeli actions.
Economic interests: The arms trade is a significant source of revenue for the UK, and Israel is a major customer. The government may be reluctant to jeopardize this economic relationship.
Geopolitical considerations: The UK views Israel as a key player in the Middle East and a strategic ally in the fight against terrorism. Maintaining this relationship is seen as vital for regional stability, despite the ongoing conflict.
Legal challenges and political pressure: The recent shift in tone from the government may be influenced by growing legal pressure and public outcry. Campaigners have taken the government to court, arguing that arms sales to Israel violate international law.
The Future
As demonstrators vow to continue their campaign, the UK government faces increasing pressure to reconcile its words with its actions. The legal challenges and public protests highlight the growing scrutiny of the UK's relationship with Israel and its role in the ongoing conflict.
