Pro-Palestinian protesters blockade Edinburgh factory over Israel arms links

Pro-Palestinian protesters blockade Edinburgh factory over Israel arms links

Over 100 local residents and workers from across Scotland blockaded the entrance to the Leonardo factory in Edinburgh on Wednesday. The protesters gathered to oppose the shipment of arms to Israel, claiming that Leonardo UK manufactures components for F-35 fighter jets used by Israel.

Rebecca, a 38-year-old charity project manager, expressed her deep upset and anger at the situation, stating, “I’m so deeply upset and angry at the slaughter and degradation of people in Gaza, Palestine more widely, and in Lebanon. Here in Scotland, we campaigned for free period products, but in Gaza, Israel’s blockade means essential items are absent: not just period products but basic medicine, shampoo, or soap.”

Patrick, a 29-year-old bar worker, emphasized the importance of not being complicit in genocide, saying, “I’m here today because it’s our obligation under international law to do what we can to ensure our communities are not complicit in genocide.”

Earlier in the autumn, the UK Government suspended around 30 arms export licences to Israel due to concerns about potential violations of international humanitarian law in the Gaza conflict. However, some licences related to components of F-35 fighter jets were exempted from this suspension.

Leonardo UK has been approached for comment regarding the blockade and protesters’ demands. The campaign to sever ties with Israel continues as protesters stand firm in their opposition to the arms trade.

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In Edinburgh, Scotland, tensions rise as protesters take a stand against arms shipments to Israel. The blockade at the Leonardo factory serves as a poignant reminder of the ethical considerations surrounding arms trade and international conflicts. As the debate rages on, it highlights the importance of accountability and responsibility in the global supply chain of arms. It remains to be seen how companies like Leonardo UK will respond to such public displays of dissent and calls for action.