Experts suggest that Western nations selling arms to Israel may need to reconsider their trade agreements following the issuance of arrest warrants by the International Criminal Court (ICC) against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged “war crimes” and “crimes against humanity” in Gaza.
These warrants were issued amidst Israel’s ongoing military campaign in the Gaza Strip, resulting in a significant number of Palestinian casualties since October 7, 2023.
All 124 countries that are parties to the Rome Statute of the ICC are now obligated to apprehend Netanyahu and Gallant if they enter their territories.
The ethical dilemma arises as to whether countries supplying arms to a nation whose leaders face accusations of crimes against humanity could be complicit. Some suppliers will need to carefully consider their stance on supporting Israel’s actions in Gaza.
(Al Jazeera)
Which countries provide arms to Israel?
According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), between 2019 and 2023, Israel ranked as the 15th largest importer of arms globally.
The major exporters of arms to Israel include the United States, Germany, United Kingdom, France, Spain, Canada, and Australia as per a United Nations report from February 23, 2024.
The US
SIPRI reports that during this period, Israel received around 69 percent of its weapons imports from the US. The US has a legal commitment dating back to 2008 ensuring that Israel maintains a “qualitative military edge.”
In response to recent events in Gaza starting from October 7, 2023, where Hamas initiated attacks on Israeli territories leading to an escalation by Israel into an assault on Gaza Strip villages and army outposts – Washington increased its weapon transfers. The latest announcement includes sending advanced missile defense systems like Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system…
Link from www.aljazeera.com