UK High Court Reviews Legal Challenge Over Arms Exports to Israel

The UK High Court has begun hearing a legal challenge regarding the British government’s continued export of components for F-35 fighter jets to Israel. Human rights organizations Al-Haq and the Global Legal Action Network (GLAN) argue that these exports violate both domestic and international law, potentially implicating the UK in war crimes. While the UK government suspended many arms export licenses in September due to concerns over violations of international humanitarian law, it made exceptions for components related to the F-35. The rights groups claim that these exceptions were deliberately made to continue supporting Israel, despite the potential role these exports play in the ongoing conflict.

The case comes amid the escalation of violence in Gaza, where over 52,800 people have reportedly been killed since hostilities resumed in March 2025. Campaigners contend that the UK’s arms exports, particularly the F-35 components, contribute to the violence and breach international law. They argue that the UK has both a legal and moral obligation to halt these exports to avoid complicity in war crimes. On the other hand, the UK government defends its actions, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling international obligations and maintaining security, especially within NATO.

In response, Oxfam has expressed support for the legal challenge, urging the UK government to uphold its international legal responsibilities by suspending all arms sales to Israel. Oxfam criticized the decision to allow the continued export of F-35 components, calling it morally wrong and out of step with the UK’s legal obligations. The humanitarian organization has seen firsthand the devastating impact of the conflict in Gaza and advocates for immediate action to prevent further escalation and potential violations of international law. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the UK’s arms export policies moving forward.