Become a Member
UK

Prestigious UK defence college bans Israeli students from applying

MoD says latest escalation in Gaza “is wrong” and decides to “pause” admission of Israelis

September 15, 2025 13:03
Screenshot 2025-09-15 at 13.29.47.png
The Royal College of Defence Studies in Belgrave Square, London, was opened in 1927 (Image: Defence Academy of the United Kingdom)
1 min read

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) will ban Israelis from studying at the UK’s prestigious Royal College of Defence Studies (RCDS) from next year.

The prestigious college, which is run by the ministry and trains high-ranking officers from the UK and its allies in strategic-level roles, has never before issued a blanket ban on applicants from an allied state.

The MOD told the JC: "UK military educational courses have long been open to personnel from a wide range of countries, with all UK military courses emphasising compliance with international humanitarian law.
"However, the Israeli Government's decision to further escalate its military operation in Gaza is wrong.

"There must be a diplomatic solution to end this war now, with an immediate ceasefire, the return of the hostages and a surge in humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza.”

To get more news, click here to sign up for our free daily newsletter.