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Written question asked by Neil Duncan-Jordan (Labour) on Tuesday, 30 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 6 July 2026 (named day). It was answered by Louise Sandher-Jones (Labour) on Monday, 6 July 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Gaza: Surveillance

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he will release Gaza surveillance flights footage of 25 and 26 March 2025.

Answer

Following the terrorist attacks against Israel of 7 October 2023, the UK government worked with partners across the region to secure the release of hostages, including British nationals, who were kidnapped.

In support of these efforts, the Ministry of Defence conducted surveillance flights over the Eastern Mediterranean, including operating in air space over Israel and Gaza between December 2023 until 10 October 2025. Following the agreement of the Gaza peace plan between Israel and Hamas, and the release of remaining hostages, the Ministry of Defence ceased surveillance flights over Gaza.

The surveillance aircraft were always unarmed, did not have a combat role, and were tasked solely to locate hostages.

I am unable to disclose the information requested as to do so would undermine Defence’s ability to respond to hostage rescue scenarios in the future.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
14647
Session
2026-27
Transferred
Yes
Subjects
Air force Gaza Surveillance
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk