The Left and the Sweden Democrats want to sell weapons to Israel

The Liberals and The Sweden Democrats want, as the only parliamentary parties, to export weapons to Israel, reports Swedish Radio's "Conflict".

» Published: November 08 2024

The Left and the Sweden Democrats want to sell weapons to Israel
Photo: Fredrik Sandberg/TT

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Sweden is an important ally to Israel "in its fight against terrorism", according to the Sweden Democrats' foreign policy spokesperson Aron Emilsson.

The Liberals also believe that Sweden should export weapons to all democracies.

In the current situation, I think the key thing is that Israel is a democracy that has the right to defend itself, which may require weapons, says Joar Forssell, The Liberals' foreign policy spokesperson to "Konflikt".

Today, Sweden exports weapons to countries that are not undemocratic or involved in an armed conflict – exceptions can, however, be made if Swedish security and defense interests are deemed to weigh heavier.

Israel, which Sweden has not exported weapons to since the 1950s, is accused of committing war crimes in Gaza. In light of this, Sweden must adhere to UN treaties and assess whether sold weapons can be used in war crimes and therefore not be exported.

The International Court of Justice decided last summer that Israeli settlements on occupied Palestinian territory are illegal and no member states should facilitate the occupation. According to the Social Democratic foreign policy spokesperson Morgan Johansson, export is therefore illegal.

Such a decision would be a blatant violation. Both of international law and Swedish legislation, he says.

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By TTEnglish edition by Sweden Herald, adapted for local and international readers

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