LONDON: The UK has ended its surveillance flights over Gaza after nearly two years, following the release of hostages held by Hamas as part of the recent ceasefire deal, Defense Secretary John Healey had confirmed.
Healey praised the “professionalism” of British personnel who had conducted the unarmed missions, which began in December 2023 with the stated goal of helping locate hostages taken during the Oct. 7 attacks of that year.
The final flight took place last week, shortly before the ceasefire came into effect, The Times newspaper reported.
“This ceasefire is a moment of profound relief, for the civilian population of Gaza, and for the Israeli hostages and their families, who have all endured unimaginable suffering,” Healey said.
“I am proud of the UK’s efforts to support the safe return of the hostages, and the professionalism of our service personnel involved.”
