UK to deploy Royal Navy ships to eastern Mediterranean to ‘bolster security’

The UK is taking measures to enhance security in the eastern Mediterranean by sending two Royal Navy ships, surveillance aircraft, three Merlin helicopters, and a detachment of Royal Marines. The objective is to track potential threats to regional stability, including weapons transfers to terrorist groups.

In addition, Rishi Sunak, the UK’s Chancellor of the Exchequer, recently had a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The purpose of their discussion was to reaffirm the UK’s unwavering support for Israel following a heinous terrorist attack carried out by Hamas.

Downing Street stated, “To mitigate any escalation of the conflict, we will deploy additional military assistance in the near future to bolster security in the wider region. Mr. Sunak emphasized that the UK stands shoulder to shoulder with Israel in combating terrorism and believes it is imperative to prevent Hamas from perpetrating further atrocities against the Israeli people. The prime minister noted the importance of safeguarding innocent Palestinian civilians who have been caught up in the conflict and ensuring the provision of humanitarian aid.”

The two leaders agreed to maintain close communication and explore further opportunities for UK support. Prime Minister Sunak declared, “Our military and diplomatic teams in the region will collaborate with international partners to restore security and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to the countless innocent victims of Hamas’ brutal attack.”

He also requested additional military personnel in Israel, Cyprus, and neighboring areas to reinforce contingency planning.

Prior to this, Mr. Sunak spoke with Egyptian President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi to discuss the urgent need to open the Rafah crossing into Gaza. This step would allow humanitarian access and provide a means for British and other nationals to depart safely.

More on Israel Gaza war

Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on southern Israel last Saturday, resulting in a death toll of at least 1,300 and the capture of approximately 150 hostages being taken to Gaza. Furthermore, Israel’s retaliatory airstrikes in Gaza have led to over 1,300 casualties.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps emphasized that the military aid being sent by the UK conveys a resolute message: Hamas’ terrorist campaign will not succeed.

The Foreign Office is arranging flights for British nationals stranded in Israel. The first departure from Tel Aviv is scheduled for Thursday, with additional flights planned in the following days, pending security conditions.