UK Bars Israeli Students from London Defence College over Gaza Escalation
The United Kingdom has announced that it will no longer admit Israeli students to the prestigious Royal College of Defence Studies (RCDS) in London, citing Israel’s continued military escalation in Gaza.
The Ministry of Defence confirmed the decision on Monday, describing it as a measure consistent with Britain’s commitment to international humanitarian law.
According to the ministry, while the UK has long welcomed military officers and officials from around the world to the RCDS, Israel’s actions in Gaza have necessitated a pause in its participation.
The ban, which takes effect from next year, will not affect Israeli students already enrolled in the programme or those attending non-combat defence courses in the UK.
Currently, fewer than five Israeli Defence Forces personnel are involved in such training.
Israel has reacted angrily to the move. Amir Baram, Director General of Israel’s Ministry of Defence and a former RCDS alumnus, condemned the decision as discriminatory and a betrayal of an ally. He said it undermined Britain’s tradition of tolerance and constituted “a dishonourable act of disloyalty to an ally at war.”
The Royal College of Defence Studies, regarded as one of the most influential institutions in military and strategic training, caters to senior officers and officials who go on to hold high-level positions in their respective countries.
The decision to bar Israelis marks the first time the UK has imposed such restrictions on a long-standing ally, underscoring growing tensions between London and Tel Aviv over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Observers note that the move adds to increasing diplomatic pressure on Israel, as the UK joins other Western nations urging restraint and compliance with international law. However, critics warn that excluding Israeli students risks politicising defence education and may strain long-standing defence and intelligence cooperation between both countries.
The RCDS decision comes as the Gaza conflict intensifies, with mounting calls for ceasefires and humanitarian relief amid reports of worsening civilian casualties.
