During Thursday night’s BBC Question Time, audience members repeatedly pressed the panel on why the UK continues to send arms to Israel, as the violence in the Middle East escalates. The public outcry comes nearly a year after Palestinian militant group Hamas launched a deadly attack on Israeli soil, killing 1,200 people and taking approximately 250 hostages. In response, Israel has engaged in widespread military actions across the region, battling Iranian-backed forces.
The situation has become increasingly dire in Gaza, where over 41,000 people have been killed as Israel aims to dismantle Hamas. Additionally, more than 346,000 people have been displaced in Lebanon following Israeli strikes targeting Hezbollah militants. Thousands more have attempted to flee to Syria, but key routes were bombarded by Israeli forces, further limiting escape options.
UK’s Role and Arms Sales
As one of Israel’s closest allies, the UK has continued to send arms export licences to Israel to assist in its self-defence against Iranian forces. However, on Question Time, many audience members expressed concerns that Israel’s military response had exceeded the boundaries of self-defence.
One audience member voiced frustration, stating, “I’m lost now. The UN was established after World War II to prevent conflicts, but they seem powerless.” The United Nations has been vocal in its criticism of Israel’s actions, with Secretary-General António Guterres condemning the continued escalation. His call for a ceasefire has led Israel to declare him a “persona non grata,” barring him from entering the country.
Another audience member pressed the panel further, questioning why the UK is still selling arms to Israel. “Obviously, we’ve paused some contracts, but it’s less than a tenth of the total. Essentially, we’re aiding and abetting a war.” This comment received widespread applause from the audience.
Government Response and Diplomatic Efforts
Last month, the Labour government halted 30 out of 350 arms export licences to Israel, citing concerns over potential breaches of international law. Israel criticised the decision as “shameful,” suggesting it would embolden Hamas.
On the panel, Scottish Secretary Ian Murray expressed hope for a diplomatic solution, stating, “In the Middle East, it’s only through dialogue that this will be resolved.” He added that all arms licences sent to Israel have been assessed under international law, with those linked to the Israel-Palestine conflict being suspended.
Conservative MP Andrew Bowie defended Israel’s actions, emphasising, “Israel is well within its right to defend itself and its people from further attacks.” Meanwhile, journalist Iain Macwhirter highlighted that Iranian proxies are “fighting a war of extinction with Israel,” making it clear that Israel’s fight would not cease any time soon.
Public Frustration Grows
The growing concern voiced by the Question Time audience reflects wider frustrations across the UK. With the Middle East conflict continuing to intensify and diplomatic efforts seemingly ineffective, many are now questioning the UK’s role in supplying arms to a region engulfed in violence. As the applause during the broadcast indicated, the public is increasingly calling for the government to reconsider its stance and hold Israel accountable for its actions.
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