Arms Embargo/Deals
We support calls for a comprehensive review of all UK arms exports to Israel, including the immediate suspension of exports of weapons and component parts that may be used in violations of international humanitarian law. This includes calling for an immediate ban on the export of all UK weapons to Israel, including component parts of F-35 fighter aircraft and other military equipment to ensure that no UK arms can be used to perpetrate human rights abuses.
As early as April 2024, Liberal Democrat Leader, Sir Ed Davey, called for the UK Government to suspend arms exports to Israel, becoming the first leader of a major UK party to do so. We have for many years now called for tougher controls of UK arms exports, to ensure that they are not used in potential human rights breaches. There is an urgent need for enhanced oversight of the defence industry’s role in this conflict.
We have repeatedly called on the Government to go further in imposing a full arms embargo, sanctioning all members of the Cabinet – including Netanyahu – who are complicit in the illegal aid blockade and targeting of civilians, and supporting the gathering of evidence for future accountability for these crimes against humanity. EDM 1385, signed by all 72 Liberal Democrat MPs, clearly outlines the Liberal Democrat position towards Israel and the conflict in the Middle East.
On 4th June 2025, Foreign Affairs spokesperson Calum Miller again asked Foreign Secretary David Lammy “Will the Government finally ban the export of all UK arms to Israel?” You can read his whole contribution here.
The Liberal Democrats maintain a longstanding commitment to a peaceful resolution to the conflict between Israel and Palestine, and a commitment to improve the UK’s control of arms exports. We condemn any disproportionate force used by all sides and have always stood firmly for the values of liberalism, internationalism and in support of the indivisibility of human rights and the rule of law. We strongly support a negotiated peace settlement with a two-state solution.