O'Brien Warns UK of US Relations Risk

Former US National Security Adviser Robert O’Brien warned that the UK's potential arms embargo on Israel could severely damage the longstanding special relationship between the UK and the US. He highlighted that such a move might not only jeopardize British involvement in the F-35 fighter jet program but could also provoke retaliatory actions from the US Congress, including a counter-embargo. O’Brien emphasized that the F-35 project would continue to deliver to Israel regardless of the UK’s stance. He also criticized the International Criminal Court’s pursuit of prosecution against Israeli leaders, urging the UK to reverse its objection to these actions. These comments reflect significant concerns about the implications of a human-rights-centric foreign policy under a Labour government, particularly if Donald Trump or Kamala Harris leads the US. The Labour government is currently deliberating its position on arms sales amid heightened scrutiny of Israel's military actions in Gaza.