UK government suspends its arms shipments to Israel and calls for New Zealand to follow its lead w/ National Chair of Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa, John Minto: 5th September, 2024.

The UK government has decided to suspend its exports of parts for fighter jets, helicopters and drones to Israel, saying there is a clear risk the equipment could be used to commit serious violations of international law.

In response, Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa has renewed its calls for the New Zealand government to suspend exports of Rakon bomb components to the US for the bombs it sends to Gaza.

This comes as over 40,000 Palestinian people, including over 16,000 children, have been killed in Israel’s war on Gaza since October 7th. 

Producer Sofia spoke to the National Chair of Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa, John Minto, about the UK government suspending arms shipments, whether Aotearoa New Zealand should follow its lead, and the New Zealand government’s response. 

She started the interview asking why the UK has suspended its arms shipments to Israel.