Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they invited Chief of the General Staff of the Israel Defence Forces Herzi Halevi to visit the UK this month, and, if so, for what reason; and which senior UK officials he met.

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 Deputy Chief of Defence Staff (Military Strategy and Operations) and the FCDO Director for the Middle East and North Africa both attended the meeting.

The Attorney General, the Rt Hon Lord Hermer KC, also held his own respective meeting with Lieutenant General Halevi.

Discussions recognised Israel’s right to security, as well as including the 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.

We continue to work with international partners to encourage de-escalation and promote long-term peace and security in the Middle East.