UN experts call for immediate halt to arms exports to israel
A group of United Nations (UN) experts issued a strong statement on Friday, urging all states to immediately cease arms exports to israel, particularly those destined for use in Gaza.
The experts warned that any transfer of weapons or ammunition to israel that could be used in Gaza likely violates international humanitarian law.
The experts stressed that all states have a responsibility to uphold international humanitarian law and must refrain from transferring any weapons or ammunition if there is a risk that they could be used to violate such laws.
They highlighted the recent decision of a Dutch appeals court, which ordered the Netherlands to suspend the export of F-35 fighter jet parts to Israel, as a positive step.
Additionally, the experts commended the actions of Belgium, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, and the Japanese company Itochu Corporation for suspending arms transfers to Israel.
They called on other states to follow suit and immediately cease all arms transfers to Israel, including export licenses and military aid. Notably, the United States and Germany are identified as the largest arms exporters to Israel, with shipments increasing since October 7. (ILKHA)