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Written question asked by Andy McDonald (Labour) on Tuesday, 30 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 2 July 2026. It was answered by Hamish Falconer (Labour) on Wednesday, 15 July 2026 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Israel Defense Forces: British Nationals Abroad

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether allegations that a UK national or dual national committed offences under the International Criminal Court Act 2001 while serving with the Israel Defense Forces would be investigated by the appropriate UK law enforcement authorities where there is sufficient evidential basis.

Answer

The UK has always recognised the right of British dual nationals to serve in the legitimately recognised armed forces of the country of their other nationality. But as with any conflict, anyone who travels overseas to fight, or to assist others engaged in conflict, may commit offences under UK law if they fail to act consistently with applicable international law, and could face investigation and prosecution on their return to the UK.

Those are decisions for the operationally-independent police and Crown Prosecution Service to take, based on the evidence in each individual case. Anyone who has evidence of a British national engaging in illegal activity should submit it to the Met Police, including any violations of the rights of children under International Humanitarian Law, of the kind alleged in the UN report to which the Hon Member refers.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
14340
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Criminal investigation British nationals abroad Israel Defense Forces
Legislation
International Criminal Court Act 2001
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk