Senior director for research, advocacy, policy and campaigns Erika Guevara Rosas said: “As Israel continues to intensify and expand its bombardment, and Hezbollah continues to launch attacks into Israel, all parties to the conflict must respect international humanitarian law and take all feasible precautions to protect civilian lives.

“We urge all states to halt all arms transfers and other forms of military assistance to Israel and Hezbollah due to the significant risk that these weapons could be used to commit or facilitate serious violations of international humanitarian law, including war crimes.”

StWC said Britain’s decision to join the US, France and a host of allies in calling for the ceasefire, was “far too little, far too late, warning that the escalating violence between Israel and Hezbollah is “intolerable.” 

In a joint statement, the 12-strong bloc urged a pause in fighting “to provide space for diplomacy towards the conclusion of a diplomatic settlement,” as well as a ceasefire in Gaza.

A StWC spokeswoman said: “This call for a temporary ceasefire is far too little, far too late and sends a message to Israel that it can go on killing hundreds of civilians with inpunity.

“Little wonder then that Israeli jets continued striking Lebanon after the call was made.

“The government must demand a permanent ceasefire and end all arms sales to Israel.”