The UK Defence Journal reported on June 30, 2025, at 19:02, that a UK court has declined a request to halt the export of F-35 parts to Israel. This decision follows a legal challenge brought forth by campaign groups who sought to prevent the supply of components for the fighter jets, citing concerns over their potential use in conflict zones.
The legal challenge argued that the UK government should suspend arms sales to Israel due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the associated humanitarian situation. Campaigners presented arguments suggesting that the F-35 aircraft, equipped with parts supplied from the UK, could be implicated in actions that violate international humanitarian law.
However, the court’s ruling ultimately found insufficient grounds to grant the injunction. The judgment indicated that the legal framework governing arms exports had been followed and that the decision to allow these exports was within the purview of the relevant government departments. The court’s assessment likely considered the existing export licensing system and the government’s assessment of the risks associated with the end-use of the components.
This outcome signifies that the UK’s policy on the export of defence equipment to Israel will continue under the current licensing arrangements, at least for the present. The government has consistently maintained that it operates a robust and responsible system for controlling arms exports, which involves careful consideration of human rights and international law. The decision by the court appears to have upheld the legality of this process.
The campaign groups that brought the case have expressed their disappointment with the ruling. They continue to advocate for a stronger stance against arms sales to Israel, emphasizing their commitment to peace and the protection of civilian lives. While this specific legal bid has been unsuccessful, the broader debate surrounding the UK’s arms trade policies, particularly in relation to active conflict zones, is likely to persist.
The UK’s defence industry plays a significant role in its economy, and the export of military technology is a key component of this sector. The F-35 program is a multinational collaboration, and the UK is a crucial partner, involved in the production of various components for the aircraft. The continuity of these export agreements is therefore of considerable economic and strategic importance.
In summary, the UK court’s decision to reject the bid to halt F-35 parts exports to Israel reflects a judicial assessment that the current export controls and licensing processes are legally sound. This ruling allows the continuation of these exports, while the public and political discourse surrounding the ethical implications of arms sales remains an active area of discussion.
UK court rejects bid to halt export of F-35 parts to Israel
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