Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke during a news conference in Jerusalem on September 2, 2024.

He criticized the British government's decision to suspend some arms export licenses to Israel, calling it a 'shameful decision' that would strengthen the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas.

Britain's Foreign Minister David Lammy announced on Monday that the government had suspended 30 out of 350 arms export licenses due to the risk that the equipment could be used to commit serious violations of international humanitarian law.

The decision came a day after Israeli forces discovered a tunnel in Hamas-ruled Gaza.

Netanyahu condemned the decision, stating that it would not change Israel's determination to defeat Hamas, which he described as a genocidal terrorist organization responsible for the murder of 1,200 people on October 7, including 14 British citizens.

He also mentioned that Hamas is still holding over 100 hostages, including 5 British citizens.

Netanyahu argued that instead of supporting Israel, a fellow democracy defending itself against barbarism, Britain's misguided decision would only embolden Hamas.

Britain's Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis also criticized the government's decision to halt several arms export licenses to Israel.

He expressed disbelief that the British government, a close strategic ally of Israel, had announced a partial suspension of arms licenses.

Mirvis stated that the announcement would encourage shared enemies and would not help secure the release of the remaining 101 hostages or contribute to a peaceful future for all people in the region and beyond.

Following the Labour Party's election victory in July, Lammy said he would update a review on arms sales to allies to ensure compliance with international law.

British exports amount to less than 1 percent of the total arms Israel receives, and the minister said the suspension would not have a material impact on Israel's security.