• Belgian authorities stopped UK-origin military components bound for Israel after an alert from investigative outlets and campaign groups; an inquiry is underway into breaches of national arms transit regulations.
• The consignments, routed via Liège Airport and including fire control systems and aircraft parts, were reportedly shipped without the required transit licence, with officials indicating the rules were clearly not followed.
• Campaigners allege the shipments form part of a wider pattern, citing evidence of multiple similar transfers through Liège, while the carrier maintains it complies with all applicable airfreight regulations.

Belgian authorities have intercepted consignments of military-related components originating in the UK and destined for Israel, prompting an investigation into possible violations of national arms transit rules.

The shipments were flagged to officials in Brussels following a joint alert from Declassified UK, Belgian campaign group Vredesactie, Irish outlet The Ditch, and the Palestinian Youth Movement.

Belgium enforces stringent controls on the movement of military goods through its territory, including restrictions on transhipments to Israel via its airports and a ban on overflights carrying weapons.

According to records, the consignments arrived at Liège Airport on 24 March and were scheduled to be flown onwards to Tel Aviv two days later on a Challenge Airlines service. After customs officials were notified of the cargo, a specialist inspection identified fire control systems alongside spare parts for military aircraft.

Wallonia’s minister-president, Adrien Dolimont, indicated that the legal framework appears to have been breached, stating that it is necessary to determine compliance but that, in this instance, the rules were “clearly” not followed. A government spokesperson added that no transit licence application had been submitted, and suggested such a request would not have been approved.

The goods were categorised under UK export control codes ML10 and ML5, covering aircraft and fire control equipment. Campaigners believe the shipments may not be isolated. Hans Lammerant of Vredesactie said there is evidence of at least 17 similar transfers via Liège, indicating a recurring route.

In a statement, Challenge Group said: “Challenge Group operates in strict compliance with all applicable international regulations, national laws, and industry standards governing air cargo transportation. We rely on the information and documentation provided by shippers and relevant parties, and we cooperate fully with authorities where required. As a matter of principle, we are committed to ensuring that our operations meet all legal and regulatory requirements across the jurisdictions in which we operate.”

Liege has been approached for comment.

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