Nonprofits Stopped in Efforts to Block UK Fighter Jet Parts to Israel

The High Court in the UK has ruled that the British government, rather than the judiciary, is responsible for determining the legality of exporting fighter jet parts to Israel, marking a setback for several nonprofits. These organizations, including Al-Haq and the Global Legal Action Network, sought to halt the continuation of such exports, claiming they could contravene international humanitarian law. Last September, the government paused arms sales to Israel, putting a stop to 30 out of 350 licenses following concerns that these could be involved in violations of humanitarian rules. Nonetheless, licenses related to the F-35 combat aircraft program—which includes multiple nations and is deemed vital for international security—were preserved. During a recent court hearing, charities highlighted that continuing exports could facilitate what they argue are serious human rights abuses against civilians. However, the High Court denied having jurisdiction to probe Israel's actions in Gaza, asserting that the authority to decide on arms exports rests with government officials.