The Metropolitan Police have confirmed they will not open an investigation into 10 British nationals accused of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity while serving with the Israeli military in Gaza. This decision follows a year-long assessment of a 240-page dossier submitted by legal experts in April 2025.
Why are rights groups criticizing this decision?
As reported by Middle East Eye, the Palestinian Centre for Human Rights (PCHR) and the Public Interest Law Centre (PILC) expressed significant disappointment regarding the police response. According to Novara Media, the organizations maintain that the referral contained credible material warranting a full investigation.
The legal teams argue that the refusal risks creating an accountability gap for international crimes allegedly committed by British citizens overseas. More than 70 legal and human rights experts had previously signed a letter of support urging the police to take action in accordance with international law.
What is the status of the investigation?
According to a spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police, the dossier provided in April 2025 was assessed by specialist officers within the Counter Terrorism Policing War Crimes Team. The review was conducted in line with joint police and Crown Prosecution Service guidelines before officials determined that no investigation would be opened.
The documentation originally submitted to authorities alleged that the individuals participated in the forced displacement of civilians and attacks on protected locations. While the police have now closed the matter, human rights advocates continue to emphasize the importance of international accountability for alleged atrocities during the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
