Arms embargos are an important tool to curb weapons transfers to States and armed groups that violate international law. They are usually part of a wider set of sanctions and measures, including financial sanctions and export restrictions.
However, there are many ways to circumvent them, including through front companies and third countries. The Small Arms Survey has compiled a new resource on methods to evade arms embargoes, in order to raise awareness and support efforts to improve their implementation.
It is a well-known fact that many of the arms that are supplied to States that are subject to international embargoes are subsequently used for serious violations of international humanitarian and human rights law. This is why it is so crucial that States and companies abide by their obligations not to supply such weapons.
A trade and arms embargo against Apartheid South Africa was one of the most effective tools used to end that system. The ensuing pressure, including from the United Nations and other States, contributed significantly to the end of South African racial segregation and to the establishment of democracy in that country.
Arms embargos are not only a legal, but also a moral obligation of all States. The ATT states parties should therefore impose a two-way arms embargo on Israel and ensure that Israeli military exports are not permitted from their jurisdictions, in line with their obligations under international law, including the ATT. In addition, such States should refrain from concluding military cooperation agreements with Israel, as these could be considered a violation of the ATT. This would make them complicit in the commission of internationally wrongful acts and could also render them liable for individual criminal responsibility under international law.
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