Over 200 civil society groups have urged F-35-producing nations to stop supplying fighter jets to Israel amid concerns over human rights violations. These campaigners argue that governments have failed to prevent the jets from being used in ways that breach international law, particularly in the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Joint Letter Calls for Immediate Action
On Monday, 232 organizations sent a letter to officials in Australia, Canada, Denmark, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, the US, and the UK. These nations produce the F-35 fighter jets, led by US-based Lockheed Martin. High-profile groups such as Amnesty International, Oxfam, and Human Rights Watch signed the letter.
The letter accused F-35 partners of ignoring their obligations under international law. It criticized the claim that the structure of the F-35 program prevents controlling the end-use of the jets. As a result, campaigners say the program is incompatible with international law.
Ongoing Legal Actions Over Arms Transfers
The UK government is already facing legal challenges for allowing arms exports to Israel, including F-35 components. Similar legal actions are underway in Canada, the Netherlands, Denmark, Australia, and the US.
In September 2024, the UK suspended 30 arms export licenses to Israel due to a “clear risk” of violations of humanitarian law. However, the suspension excluded F-35 components. The government argued that halting F-35 licensing would affect the entire global program and harm its broader role in NATO and military aid to Ukraine.
Read: Israeli Troops Remain in South Lebanon After Withdrawal Deadline
High Death Toll and Displacement
Israel’s bombardment of Gaza has led to over 48,000 deaths, with researchers estimating even higher numbers. The United Nations reports that 69% of Gaza’s infrastructure has been damaged, and most residents have been forcibly displaced.
Campaigners highlighted the fragility of the current ceasefire and warned of further human rights violations. The letter accused F-35 program partners of providing political and material support for these actions.
Treaty Obligations Ignored
All F-35 program nations are parties to the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT), except the US, which has signed but not ratified it. The ATT prohibits arms transfers if there is a risk of humanitarian law violations. However, the UK has blocked arms transfers only on narrow grounds, such as Israel’s treatment of detainees and restrictions on humanitarian aid.
The Campaign Against Arms Trade (CAAT) emphasized the role of F-35 jets in Israel’s extended military campaigns in Gaza. “These jets were instrumental in crimes, including war crimes and crimes against humanity,” said Katie Fallon, advocacy manager at CAAT.
Government Justifications
A UK government spokesperson defended the decision to exclude F-35 components from the arms suspension. “Suspending F-35 licensing would prejudice its strategic role in NATO and support to Ukraine,” they stated.
Despite ongoing calls for change, campaigners remain adamant that arms transfers to Israel must stop to uphold international law.
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