UK court rejects challenge to block F-35 parts exports to Israel

A UK court on Monday rejected a lawsuit by rights activists seeking to halt exports of British-made components for F-35 fighter jets to Israel, saying the decision rests with the government.

The High Court said export controls are a matter for ministers, not the judiciary.

UK weapons account for just 0.02% of Israeli military equipment, according to Sky News. Israel receives 0.4% of Britain’s total arms exports.

Campaign Against Arms Trade said UK firms produce about 15% of the F-35 used by Israel in strikes on Gaza.

In 2024, Britain suspended 30 arms export licences to Israel, including parts for drones and helicopters. F-35 parts shipped via the United States were excluded.