The United Kingdom has deployed a small team of military planning officers to Israel as part of a United States–led multinational taskforce focused on post-conflict planning in Gaza.
The government clarified that the team’s role does not include direct involvement in monitoring the current ceasefire.
Defence Minister Al Carns confirmed the deployment in a written response to Conservative MP James Cartlidge, explaining that a small group of British officers, headed by a two-star deputy commander, has joined the US-led Civil Military Coordination Centre (CMCC) in Israel. The deployment aims to keep the UK integrated in international planning efforts for Gaza’s long-term stability once the conflict ends.
Carns emphasised that the British officers are not engaged in ceasefire observation, adding that the UK continues to cooperate with international partners to support the ceasefire and identify where it can best contribute to the peace process.
The CMCC, led by the US Central Command (Centcom), includes personnel from several countries such as Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates. The taskforce’s mission focuses on coordination, humanitarian logistics, and rebuilding strategies rather than combat or direct peacekeeping duties.
This development follows Israel’s approval of the initial phase of a ceasefire deal with Hamas, which has involved the release of hostages and prisoners. US officials have previously stated that up to 200 American troops already stationed in the Middle East would be transferred to Israel to assist the CMCC.
British officers will continue to operate exclusively from within Israel, without entering Gaza, while contributing to the strategic coordination and planning processes.
