On 11 November 2024, SNP MP Brendan O’Hara posed key questions to the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) about intelligence-sharing protocols with Israel, RAF surveillance over Gaza, and compliance with international humanitarian law.
His questions highlight concerns regarding how UK intelligence is being used in the context of the ongoing hostage crisis in Gaza.
O’Hara specifically sought details on steps the MOD has taken to ensure that intelligence shared with Israel is strictly used within international legal limits.
He also pressed for information on discussions between UK and Israeli defence ministers about lawful intelligence practices.
In response, Defence Minister Johnny Mercer confirmed that all MOD protocols align with UK and international legal standards, and stated that UK and Israeli officials frequently engage on humanitarian and legal concerns, particularly about Gaza’s security.
O’Hara further questioned the MOD about processes ensuring that data from RAF surveillance flights over Gaza is solely used for hostage rescue efforts.
Mercer assured that the MOD’s mandate in Gaza remains narrow and mission-specific, adding, “Only information relevant to hostage rescue will be passed to the relevant authorities,” reaffirming adherence to international law.
In a final inquiry, O’Hara asked whether the MOD has established protocols to assess and retain intelligence from RAF surveillance flights over Gaza.
Mercer emphasized the MOD’s restricted focus on hostage recovery operations, explaining that operational security prevents further comment on intelligence matters.
