Its decision to allow the F-35 fighter-type fighter aircraft to be exported, although the country had accepted that they were likely to be used in violation of international humanitarian law in, was legal, it was held a senior London Court.
Al-HKK, an organization based in Israel-occupied West Bank, had legally turned to the British Ministry of Business and Trade for its decision to exclude the F-35 components when it suspended some of the exports of weapons systems last year.
The United Kingdom estimated that Israel was not committed to compliance with international humanitarian law in relation to humanitarian aid and the treatment of prisoners in its ongoing military operation in response to Hamas’ attack in October 2023.
But Britain has decided to exclude licenses for the F-35s with the government arguing that they would be suspended by the global supply of aircraft supplies for aircraft with broader consequences for international security.
Any such obstruction would “undermine US confidence in the United Kingdom and NATO”, the Ministry of Defense ruled.
Al-HAK argued in a hearing last month that the decision was illegal as it violated Britain’s obligations under international law, including the Geneva Convention.
But the Supreme Court has rejected the organization’s appeal, which is believed to be the only such case in Britain about weapons sales in Israel.
It is not known so far whether al-HAK will seek permission to appeal the decision.
