The Times of Israel reports that Robert O’Brien, a former US national security adviser, sent a forceful message to the UK government about its consideration of imposing an arms embargo on Israel. Working under former President Donald Trump, O’Brien issued a warning that this kind of action would jeopardize the long-term partnership between the US and the UK.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
Addressing a Policy Exchange event, O’Brien emphasized that if Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government proceeds with plans to suspend arms export licenses to Israel, there could be a “potential for a serious rift” with the US, irrespective of the current administration.
The former adviser urged the UK to approach the situation with caution, stressing that “the consequences of imposing an arms embargo on Israel is something the UK really needs to think about, especially at a time when Russia and China pose significant threats to the West.” He warned that the US Congress might respond by enforcing a counter-embargo, which could lead to a halt in American weapons supplies to the UK.
Furthermore, O’Brien highlighted the risk to the UK’s involvement in the production of F-35 fighter jets, a joint project that he believes would continue to supply Israel regardless of the UK’s stance. “You would hate to see a situation where the UK is no longer a partner in the F-35 project or other advanced platforms because of a very ill-advised arms embargo on Israel,” he remarked.
During the same meeting, O’Brien also criticized the UK’s decision to withdraw its objection to the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) request for arrest warrants against Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. He dismissed the ICC’s actions as “a joke” and called for the UK to take steps to shut down what he described as “an impediment to peace in the region.”
As the UK government carefully considers its options, the impact of its decisions on international relations remains a critical concern.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
