British Revokes Arms Licenses to Israel: Does It Matter?

On Monday, the British Government stated that five arms export licenses, for the upkeep of gunboats sent to Israel, were being revoked because of the use of British materials during the recent Gaza War. The British Embassy in Tel Aviv stated, however, "There is no partial U.K. arms embargo on Israel… U.K. policy remains to assess all export licenses to Israel against the consolidated EU [European Union] and national arms export licensing criteria....We judged that in a small number of cases Israeli action in Operation Cast Lead would result in the export of those goods now contravening the consolidated criteria. These licenses have been revoked.”

Israeli officials claim that British arms are a small percentage of Israel’s supply, but London's move may have political implications. Some Israelis see Britain’s decision as an extension of anti-Semitic manipulations against “an aggrieved Israel". Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Ayalon said,  "[It was] disappointing that there are certain sectors in Britain who have a biased and one-sided view of the situation, and look for every opportunity to hurt Israel."

There is a contrasting argument, however, that this is just a passing, token affair. Britain's limited revocation and Israel's reaction are gestures to satisfy international human rights organizations, activists, and members of Parliament. Indeed, the statement sent by the British Embassy to the Foreign Ministry of Israel indicates that the Government's decision was to stave off pressure from these groups. As the other 177 export licenses for arms to Israel proceed without restriction, one suspects that this affair is simply a little local difficulty.