UK executed 200 spy missions over Gaza to assist 'Israel' in genocide

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Declassified UK
9 May 2024 00:43
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Initially portrayed as assistance for ongoing rescue operations of Israeli captives, the frequency and timing of these flights have stirred suspicions.

Flight path of a British Shadow R1 spy plane on its way to Gaza (Agencies)

The Royal Air Force (RAF) has carried out an astounding 200 surveillance flights over Gaza since December, disclosed a report by Declassified UK published on Wednesday.

Despite repeated requests for transparency, the UK government has chosen not to divulge specific details regarding these missions.

These flights, originating from RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, have amassed over 1,000 hours of surveillance footage over Gaza, pointing out to a substantial amount of monitoring efforts by British forces in the region.

Initially portrayed as assistance for ongoing rescue operations of Israeli captives, the frequency and timing of these flights have stirred suspicions of participating in military actions, according to Declassified UK.

Commencing nearly two months after the captive situation emerged, there are speculations that the surveillance extends beyond rescue operations to encompass broader intelligence-gathering objectives amid the enduring war on Gaza.

The report further discusses a significant incident where a British spy flight was airborne during an Israeli strike on aid workers in Gaza, which resulted in the tragic deaths of three British citizens.

Despite mounting inquiries, the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has evaded clarifying the purpose and extent of the surveillance flights. Concerns have arisen regarding the sharing of surveillance footage with the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the potential presence of evidence of war crimes.

Utilizing the Shadow R1 aircraft operated by the UK military's No.14 Squadron, these surveillance efforts have seen active deployment over Gaza, including frequent trips to Italy for undisclosed purposes.

Amidst the presence of British nationals among the captives, questions arise about the UK's support for "Israel" amid its genocidal goals in Gaza.

Despite escalating scrutiny, the UK military has recently awarded a contract to upgrade and expand its fleet of surveillance aircraft, underscoring its ongoing commitment to espionage operations in the Middle East.