Britain has banned Israelis from attending the Royal College of Defence Studies due to the ongoing war in Gaza, leading to a strong reaction from Israel.
Despite being a close ally, Britain has pressured Israel regarding the conflict, warning it might recognize a Palestinian state unless it improves conditions in Gaza. Starting next year, Israeli students will not be allowed at the college, which offers a post-graduate course in international strategic studies.
This decision follows Israel’s plan to increase military actions in Gaza City to counter Hamas. A British Ministry of Defence spokesperson criticized Israel’s military escalation and stated that future Israeli participation in UK courses would be paused. In response, Israel’s Ministry of Defence called the ban “discriminatory” and “dishonourable. ” Earlier, Britain also barred Israeli officials from attending its largest arms fair amid the escalating conflict.
