1. United States
2. Letter

States and businesses must immediately halt arms transfers to Israel or risk being held accountable as accomplices to the commission of war crimes and other serious violations of international humanitarian and human rights law in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. The UN human rights office has called for this measure in response to Israel's excessive and disproportionate use of force against Palestinian civilians, including children, in recent military operations. These actions contravene the fundamental principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution under international humanitarian law. The continued supply of weapons to Israel emboldens their unjustified killing and wounding of defenseless Palestinians. An arms embargo is essential to prevent further escalation and civilian casualties. Peace and human rights must take precedence over economic interests in the arms trade.