In a recent decision, the London High Court dismissed a plea to suspend the export of British arms to Israel, according to statements from the plaintiffs' legal representatives on Tuesday.
The request, made by a coalition of legal advocacy groups in January, sought an expedited judicial review of the UK government's ongoing arms sales to Israel, particularly amidst concerns regarding their potential use in violations of international humanitarian law.
While Britain's strategic licensing criteria advise against exporting weapons that could contribute to such violations, the court rejected the argument presented by the claimants, which included organizations like Al-Haq and the Global Legal Action Network (GLAN).
Despite this setback, the plaintiffs' lawyers announced their intention to appeal the decision, emphasizing their continued commitment to the cause.
This development comes amid a series of legal efforts by pro-Palestinian groups to challenge arms exports to Israel, driven by mounting casualties in the Gaza Strip.
In a separate ruling in mid-February, the Appeals Court in The Hague ordered the Netherlands to cease supplying parts for F-35 fighter jets used by Israel in Gaza, citing a "clear risk" of involvement in violations of international humanitarian law.
The conflict in Gaza has resulted in a significant loss of life, with the latest figures from the territory's Hamas-led health ministry estimating at least 29,195 fatalities, predominantly comprising women and children.
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