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Written question asked by Angus MacDonald (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 29 August 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 2 September 2025. It was answered by Al Carns (Labour) on Tuesday, 14 October 2025 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Gaza: Israel

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will review the level of Israeli compliance with international humanitarian law in the context of the war in Gaza; and if he will suspend the provision of training to Israeli Defence Force personnel in the UK during the conduct of this review.

Answer

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is the lead Government Department for assessing international partners’ compliance with International Humanitarian Law (IHL). The Ministry of Defence (MOD) works closely with the FCDO to ensure we are consistent with their approach.

The MOD’s provision of training to foreign armed forces is assessed carefully on a case-by-case basis and seeks to ensure any training provided by the UK is in accordance with IHL. All training courses promote British values, including human rights, democracy and compliance with international humanitarian law.

Given the Government of Israel’s decision to escalate its offensive in Gaza City, the MOD decided to pause future Israeli participation on UK training and education courses.

We are keeping this decision under review and are mindful of the potential prospects for a ceasefire and long-term resolution to the conflict.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
71788
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Armed conflict International law Gaza Israel Training Israel Defense Forces
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk