The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, Chief of the General Staff of the Israel Defence Forces, visited the UK on 25 November 2024 for discussions addressing the conflicts in Lebanon and Gaza.
Responding to a parliamentary question from Baroness Bennett of Manor Castle, Minister of State for Defence Lord Coaker outlined the purpose of the meeting as part of a concerted international effort to de-escalate tensions and promote peace in the Middle East.
According to Lord Coaker, “As part of the concerted UK effort, along with allies and partners, to reach a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflicts in Lebanon and Gaza, the Chief of the Defence Staff hosted his counterparts from Israel and other international partners on Monday 25 November.”
The meeting included senior UK officials such as the Deputy Chief of Defence Staff (Military Strategy and Operations) and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Director for the Middle East and North Africa.
Additionally, “The Attorney General, the Rt Hon Lord Hermer KC, also held his own respective meeting with Lieutenant General Halevi,” Coaker confirmed.
Discussions during Halevi’s visit recognised “Israel’s right to security,” while also reflecting UK calls for “an immediate ceasefire in both Lebanon and Gaza, the need for greater humanitarian access into Gaza, the release of all hostages, and the requirement for all parties to comply with international humanitarian law.”
The UK Government also emphasised its commitment to working with international partners to encourage de-escalation and pursue lasting peace and security in the region.
Why would we have to justify meeting with the isreal.
Makes complete sense, I know many will disapprove but we don’t know what type of government will emerge in Syria and need to keep Israel and other allies in the region close.