UK-Israel Defense Ties: Navigating Challenges and Strengthening Cooperation

The British government's suspension of 30 of Israel’s 350 arms export licenses last September raised concerns about the future of UK-Israel relations. Did this mark a shift in British support for Israel, or were the longstanding ties too strong to be severed?

Despite the suspension, figures tell a different story. According to the Campaign Against Arms Trade (CAAT), the UK government approved £17 million ($23 million) in defense exports to Israel in 2023. The core of the UK-Israel relationship, however, isn’t merely about arms trade; it’s the deep military cooperation, including joint training exercises and strategic support during crises.

One such crisis occurred in April and October when Iranian missiles targeted Israel. British forces helped intercept the threats, highlighting the practical nature of this defense partnership.

Key to strengthening these ties was General (Retd.) Sir Nicholas Patrick Carter, former Chief of the UK Defence Staff. His December 2020 agreement with then-IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Aviv Kochavi marked a pivotal moment in defense collaboration between the nations. Carter’s recent return to Israel to attend the DefenseTech Summit underscored the continuing importance of this relationship.

In an exclusive interview with Globes, Carter discussed global security issues, including the growing alliance between Russia, Iran, and North Korea, and his belief that dialogue with Tehran is essential to prevent further escalation. He also addressed the dynamics in Syria, noting how the conflict has reshaped regional geopolitics, offering Israel and its allies a window of opportunity.

As global defense dynamics evolve, Carter pointed out that Israel’s role in cutting-edge defense technology remains significant. The country's innovation, particularly in defense systems like the Magen Or laser defense, continues to draw interest. While Israel and the UK face competition in some technological areas, such as air defense systems, the collaboration remains focused on mutual security interests.

Looking at the broader picture, Carter emphasized the lessons that the British military has learned from Israel, particularly in terms of operational strategy during conventional conflicts. The UK’s Gulf War experience, for example, was influenced by Israeli tactics developed in earlier conflicts, including the Six-Day War and the Yom Kippur War.

Despite political changes in both countries, the military alliance between Israel and the UK continues to evolve. Carter’s involvement in strategic consulting, especially in defense technology, highlights how Israel's expertise is valued globally.

As tensions rise globally, the question remains: will Israel and the UK continue to build on this strategic partnership, despite political disagreements? One thing is clear—both nations recognize the importance of defense collaboration in an increasingly volatile world.