House of Commons · Westminster Hall
18 March 2025 · 12 other contributors · 8,645 words
Opened by Shockat Adam Ind Leicester South
Responding minister: Luke Pollard
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Shockat Adam raised concerns about military co-operation with israel in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
The lead MP asks for immediate action from the Government, including summoning the Israeli ambassador and considering economic sanctions to uphold moral responsibility and international law.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
The debate centres on the recent Israeli airstrikes that killed over 400 people, potentially facilitated by British military co-operation and intelligence sharing. It highlights the violation of international law and raises questions about UK's role in enabling war crimes. The debate also addresses the denial of essential resources to Gaza and its impact on civilians.
The MP supports the debate, highlighting the murder of over 400 Palestinians and questioning whether F-35s were used in recent airstrikes. He also raises concerns about continued arms export licences to Israel.
Did not deliver a speech in this chunk.
Stated that tens of thousands of Palestinians have been killed, calling for immediate suspension of arms sales and cessation of military cooperation to uphold international law.
Called for an immediate halt to all arms exports to Israel, condemned the Israeli Government’s decision to block aid and cut electricity supply, and urged the UK Government to apply pressure on Prime Minister Netanyahu. The hon. Member raised concerns about the west bank, urging Israel to adhere to international humanitarian law.
Supports the debate's focus on the unacceptable silence of the international community regarding Israel's actions. Urges the UK Government to meet obligations under international law by imposing immediate sanctions. Supports Jeremy Corbyn's argument that international laws are being breached and silence implies complicity.
Believes in peace through strength, supports Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas attacks resulting in over 1,200 deaths.
Points out that the Government has introduced arms export licence suspensions targeting weapons of British origin used in Gaza, aiming to balance this with the needs of the IDF for self-defence against aggression from other theatres. The MP questions the likelihood that UK RAF transport aircraft would be carrying military vehicles to Israel, suggesting they are unnecessary. Appreciates the sincerity of Shockat Adam for securing debate on Gaza situation.
Discussed arms exports to Israel, noting that UK export licences for components of the F-35 programme were excluded from suspension due to strategic implications.
Mr. Francois discussed the importance of the defence industry in terms of economic contributions, job creation, and strategic support for allies like Ukraine. He highlighted the role of British-supplied equipment and training in defending Kyiv during Russia's invasion.
The MP agrees with Shockat Adam's concerns about allying with Israel during a genocide and questions the independent due diligence on UK intelligence use in Gaza operations. Asked whether the Minister acknowledges that Israeli actions and the Government’s response could be used as a template by rogue states like Russia.
Discussed the consequences of military collaboration, noting more licences issued than suspended and UK complicity through overseas territories like Cyprus and Gibraltar.
Agrees that Israel is not defending itself but targeting innocent Palestinians. Calls on the Government to stop selling arms to prevent further violations of international law. Sought clarification on whether the Minister would give way after receiving a question but was told there wasn't enough time.
Government Response
Luke PollardThe Minister for the Armed Forces
The minister emphasised that reported civilian casualties from Israel’s actions are appalling, calling for dialogue to ensure a ceasefire is implemented. He also noted the UK's strategic partnership with Israel, including defence education and joint training. The minister reassured hon. Members that RAF surveillance flights over Gaza support hostage rescue efforts in accordance with international humanitarian law. Discussed the review of Israel’s compliance with international humanitarian law and the suspension of relevant export licences to Israel, excluding components for the F-35 programme. Emphasised that the UK Government remains steadfast in its support for Israel but must maintain a robust arms export licensing regime.