British troops have been deployed to Israel to assist in overseeing a delicate ceasefire in Gaza following a request from the US. The Defence Secretary, John Healey, announced that a senior commander and a small team of military personnel will be stationed in the area, with Britain playing a key role in a multinational force. The appointed commander will act as the deputy in the American-led Civil Military Coordination Centre in Israel, where troops from Qatar, Egypt, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates are also expected to participate, according to US officials.
This decision comes shortly after Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that the UK had no intentions of sending soldiers as part of the force. Minister Healey emphasized that Britain will contribute expert knowledge and skills to support the ceasefire monitoring efforts, although leadership will primarily be provided by others.
The ceasefire, brokered by US President Donald Trump, faced a test when Israel accused Hamas of killing two soldiers. In response, the IDF initiated a series of airstrikes in southern Gaza, resulting in the deaths of at least 45 Palestinians, including children. Subsequently, both Israel and Hamas reaffirmed their commitment to the ceasefire.
A Ministry of Defence spokesperson confirmed that a few UK planning officers have been integrated into the US-led Civil Military Coordination Centre, including a two-star deputy commander, to ensure British involvement in post-conflict stability planning for Gaza. The UK government continues to collaborate with international partners to assist in the Gaza ceasefire and contribute to the peace process.
The US has agreed to provide up to 200 troops to support the multinational force, with both British and American forces operating outside the Gaza Strip. The exact responsibilities, chain of command, legal standing, and other logistical aspects of the task force are still being finalized.
Additionally, the force is expected to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian aid to the impoverished Palestinians in Gaza, where food deliveries have faced challenges due to delays imposed by Israel.