High Court Upholds Lawfulness of F‑35 Parts Export to Israel Despite IHL Concerns

On 30 June 2025, the High Court upheld a decision by the UK Government to continue exporting F‑35 fighter jet parts to Israel, rejecting a judicial review brought by Al-Haq and Global Legal Action Network. The claim focused on potential violations of international humanitarian law (IHL) under Article 1 of the Export Control Order 2008 and duty to consider grave breaches under the Human Rights Act 1998.

The Court held the matter to be of “policy discretion” rather than justiciable—even amid credible IHL concerns. Judges noted that political choices not to pause strategic exports are not amenable to judicial review, so long as no clear illegality or irrationality is found.

Why Haleys Solicitors?

This case underscores the need for expert public law advisors who understand Executive-branch discretion limits. Haleys Solicitors houses a BSB-regulated public law team with experience in challenging Government decisions in areas such as arms exports, judicial review, and human rights claims. Our practitioners are adept at mounting evidence-based legal challenges where policy decisions cross legal thresholds.

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For representation in administrative or public law matters, including challenging governmental functions, contact Haleys Solicitors at 0121 285 3211, via email info@haleys-solicitors.co.uk, or visit our Birmingham, Sheffield, or Bradford locations.