Supreme Court Dismisses PIL on Arms Export to Israel

The Supreme Court dismissed a PIL seeking a halt to India's export of arms to Israel, citing national self-interest and foreign policy, which falls under the government's jurisdiction. The court emphasized that it cannot evaluate foreign policy decisions and highlighted the autonomy of sovereign nations like Israel.

On Monday, the Supreme Court dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking to stop India's export of arms and military equipment to Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The bench, led by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud, reiterated that decisions regarding foreign policy are the prerogative of the government.

The court underscored that halting such exports could lead to legal repercussions for Indian firms bound by contractual obligations. Highlighting the independence of sovereign nations, the bench stated that Israel cannot be subjected to Indian judicial jurisdiction.

In its ruling, the court pointed out that foreign policy issues, including arms exports, fall under the central government's authority as per Article 162 of the Constitution. The court asserted that it lacked jurisdiction over the matter and that national self-interest assessments are the government's responsibility.

(With inputs from agencies.)