The UK government has suspended or refused more than 80 export licences for items that could be used by the IDF in Gaza, marking a significant expansion of restrictions first introduced in September 2024. Middle East Minister Stephen Doughty confirmed the updated figures, noting that more than 50 new applications have been blocked since initial measures took effect.
Implementation of the Double Lock System on Arms Exports
The expanded restrictions follow a policy shift under the UK government to classify the occupation as illegal, prompting additional measures on September 8. Stephen Doughty explained that these regulatory changes establish an effective double lock on arms exports to the region.
Under the updated framework, export applications face dual evaluations. Officials must assess shipments against existing conditions regarding international humanitarian law violations alongside the updated legal classifications implemented in September.
Despite these suspensions, the government continues to approve specific licences that satisfy official Strategic Export Licensing Criteria. All active authorisations remain under continuous review by department officials.
Exemptions for the International F-35 Fighter Jet Program
British components integrated into the international F-35 fighter jet supply chain remain largely exempt from the suspension orders. However, direct F-35 exports to Israel have been halted.
Stephen Doughty defended the broader supply chain exemption during parliamentary discussions. He stated that removing British-made spares from the global F-35 program would create very serious implications for the entire initiative and remains crucial to national security and allied defense frameworks.
Foreign Affairs Select Committee Chair Emily Thornberry challenged the exemption during committee proceedings. Thornberry argued that the UK could maintain its contribution to the wider F-35 program while specifically designating components as barred from use in aircraft deployed to Israel, pointing to a similar enforcement model previously utilised by the Netherlands.
Related Security Investigations in the United Kingdom
In a separate domestic development concurrent with the export policy shifts, five individuals arrested during an investigation into explosives at an Royal Air Force base were released on bail on Monday afternoon.
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