By Ben Kerrigan-
A civil servants’ union is considering legal action against the UK government over its arms sales to Israel amid concerns about potential violations of international humanitarian law.
The Department of Business and Trade employees involved in arms exports have raised questions about their legal liability if Israel is found to be breaching international humanitarian law.
The call for halting arms sales to Israel has intensified following an attack by the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) that resulted in the deaths of three British aid workers.
Pressure has mounted on the government to disclose the legal advice it has received regarding Israel’s compliance with international law.
President Joe Biden’s recent communication with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underscores the international concern, with Biden emphasizing future US support contingent on measures to protect civilians and aid workers.
Paul O’Connor, head of bargaining at the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union, stated, “The International Court of Justice considers that some of the alleged acts by Israel in Gaza could potentially be considered within the provisions of the Genocide Convention.”
He emphasized the union’s belief in the government’s obligation to halt arms sales to Israel and its readiness to pursue legal action if necessary.
In response, a government spokesperson emphasized that advice on Israel’s adherence to international humanitarian law is under review and that export license applications are assessed against the Strategic Export Licensing Criteria on a case-by-case basis.
The conflict in Gaza has claimed the lives of over 30,000 people, with the majority being women and children.
Despite the government’s assertion that advice on Israel’s conduct is under review, the civil servants’ union’s contemplation of legal action highlights the ongoing debate over the UK’s arms sales policy and its alignment with international law.