The UK High Court has upheld the government’s decision to continue supplying F-35 fighter jet components through a global parts pool accessible to Israel. The ruling comes amid heightened scrutiny of arms transfers linked to the conflict in Gaza.

Palestinian human rights organization Al-Haq filed a legal complaint against the Department for Business and Trade, arguing that the UK’s involvement in the F-35 program could contribute to violations of international humanitarian law.

Legal Decision Highlights Executive Authority

While the UK does not sell F-35 parts directly to Israel, it contributes to the multinational supply network supporting all partner nations in the program. The court determined that such matters involve “acutely sensitive and political issues” and ruled they fall under the jurisdiction of the executive branch, which is accountable to Parliament and voters—not the courts.

The UK government had defended its stance by citing national security considerations and commitments to allies involved in the F-35 initiative.