Even with diplomatic tensions simmering between Britain and Israel, the UK’s military efforts in Gaza haven’t slowed down.
British spy planes are still flying over the war-torn territory, helping the Israeli government locate hostages who have been missing since the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack.
British Aircraft Quietly Gather Intelligence for Israel
According to sources quoted by The Times, the UK’s Royal Air Force has been flying special reconnaissance missions from its Middle Eastern bases.
These flights are aimed at tracking movements and providing intelligence on the hostages taken by Hamas.
The intel is then passed directly to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
This ongoing mission involves high-tech surveillance planes, primarily the Shadow R1, which is equipped with cutting-edge spying capabilities.
These aircraft are believed to have flown hundreds of operations—sometimes almost daily—from RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus.
Official Line vs. Speculation Over True Intentions
The Ministry of Defence in London has been tight-lipped about the details, refusing to confirm exactly which planes are in use.
However, flight tracking data leaves little doubt about the involvement of Shadow R1 aircraft.
Officially, the UK claims the missions are solely focused on locating the hostages.
But some experts aren’t convinced that’s the whole story.
Former Major General Charlie Herbert has expressed concerns that the intelligence collected might also be used for offensive military purposes.
As he put it, while the data is supposedly being gathered to aid hostage rescue efforts, it could just as easily be used to help Israel target Hamas positions.
Political Fallout Between London and Tel Aviv
The military collaboration continues despite a noticeable diplomatic chill between Britain and Israel.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s recent comments about conditionally recognizing Palestine as a state have caused friction.
Several top officials in the British government have also openly criticized Israel’s handling of the conflict.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy recently described the Israeli military’s strikes on Palestinians searching for food as “grotesque” and “sickening,” even hinting at the possibility of new sanctions.
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, clearly unhappy with these developments, accused the UK of “rewarding Hamas” with its recognition talk.
Netanyahu Eyes Full Military Takeover of Gaza
While UK aircraft circle above Gaza, the Israeli leadership is mulling a much larger move.
Reports suggest Prime Minister Netanyahu has instructed his military to prepare for a full-scale takeover of the entire Gaza Strip—including areas where hostages are still believed to be held.
According to The Jerusalem Post, Netanyahu has made it clear to the IDF Chief of Staff, Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir, that this plan must go ahead.
One source claimed the Prime Minister delivered a blunt message: if the military leadership isn’t on board, they should consider stepping aside.
The Future of Gaza Hangs in the Balance
Netanyahu is reportedly preparing to pitch the full-occupation plan to his cabinet.
He’s described the effort as a mission to “free Gaza from the tyranny of these terrorists,” referring to Hamas.
But not everyone in his circle is on board. Israeli military officials have voiced concerns, pointing out that it could take a massive amount of time and resources to dismantle Hamas infrastructure completely.
Currently, Israeli forces control roughly 75 percent of Gaza.
If Netanyahu’s proposed plan is approved, that control could soon stretch across the entire region—potentially reshaping the future of the territory.
What Happens Next?
As the conflict evolves, so do the questions.
Will the UK face backlash for its continued intelligence-sharing with Israel?
Could Netanyahu’s bold push for total occupation backfire politically or militarily?
And perhaps most crucially—will any of these efforts actually lead to the rescue of the hostages?
The situation remains deeply complex, and the next steps from both London and Tel Aviv could shape the region’s future for years to come.
