A lawyer representing Palestine has called on the UK to cease arming Israel in accordance with a recent advisory opinion from the UN’s International Court of Justice (ICJ). The ICJ found that Israel’s settlement policies and occupation of Palestinian territories violate international law, and UN member states are obligated not to aid or recognize the occupation as lawful. Professor Philippe Sands KC emphasized that the UK, as a member state, should not provide military material that supports Israel’s unlawful occupation.
Implications for UK Policy and International Relations
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced a comprehensive review of Israel’s compliance with international humanitarian law and indicated a potential ban on some arms sales. Sands, a professor of law at University College London and visiting professor at Harvard Law School, stated that while the ICJ’s advisory opinion is not directly binding, it serves as an authoritative legal statement that the UN and its agencies will follow. The ruling also affects the legality of imports from Israeli settlements to the UK.
Political and Diplomatic Considerations
The UK’s stance on the ICJ opinion, which will be voted on by the UN General Assembly, is seen as crucial. Despite voting against the ICJ referral, the UK is now under pressure to align with international law. Sands highlighted that the UK’s response will influence its relations with the United States, which is expected to oppose the ruling. The ICJ also affirmed the Palestinian right to self-determination, an issue that remains politically charged and pivotal in UK foreign policy.