London, Oct 8 (FN Agency) The United Kingdom does not support French President Emmanuel Macron’s initiative to impose an arms embargo on Israel, UK Defence Secretary John Healey said on Monday. “No. We work a different system. We as a government do not supply anything directly to Israel, but where there are export licenses that have a clear risk that may breach international law, then we have suspended those licenses where they could affect the lives in Gaza,” he told Sky News. Healey emphasized that it was necessary to “redouble” peace efforts, as the Middle East “can’t afford another year like the last.” He said the warring parties should agree a ceasefire and start a dialogue that could lead in the long term to a two-state solution that would allow the Palestinians to have their own state and Israelis to live in peace and security.
On Sunday, French President Macron called for an end to arms supplies to Israel, which are used to conduct military operations in the Gaza Strip, calling such a step a priority for ending the conflict in the region.On October 7, 2023, Israel was subjected to an unprecedented rocket attack from the Gaza Strip. In addition, fighters of Palestinian movement Hamas infiltrated the border areas, opened fire on the military and civilians and took hostages. Israeli authorities say that about 1,200 people were killed during the raid. The Israel Defence Forces launched Operation Iron Swords in the Gaza Strip and announced a complete blockade of the enclave. The death toll from the Israeli aggression has risen to 41,909 martyrs and 97,303 injuries since October 7, 2023, according to the Ministry of Health in Gaza.