UK bans Israelis from enrolling in prestigious defense academy from next year

The Royal College of Defence Studies, one of Britain’s most eminent military academies, has banned Israelis from enrolling from next year, due to the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip, the UK government confirmed to British media on Sunday.

A UK Defense Ministry spokesman told The Telegraph that while British defense programs were open to personnel from a “wide range of countries, with all UK military courses emphasizing compliance with international humanitarian law… the Israeli government’s decision to further escalate its military operation in Gaza is wrong.”

The spokesman added that “there must be a diplomatic solution to end this war now, with an immediate ceasefire, the return of the hostages, and a surge in humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza.”

It marked the first time that the prestigious college banned Israelis since its establishment in 1927. Defense Ministry Director General Maj. Gen. (res.) Amir Baram and IDF spokesperson Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin are among the Israeli officers who have attended the school.

https://www.timesofisrael.com/uk-bans-israelis-from-enrolling-in-prestigious-defense-academy-from-next-year/

Disgraceful decision from a presumed ally.