British Ambassador: UK Committed to Kuwait's Security and Stability Through Defense Cooperation, Military Training, Professional Exchange, Strategic Dialogue, and Close Diplomatic Ties

The British Ambassador to Kuwait, Qudsi Rashid, confirmed that his country has changed its stance on the Israeli occupation of the West Bank as part of its efforts to preserve the two-state solution. He noted that the official British position now considers the occupation itself illegal and unacceptable under international law, whereas the previous stance focused solely on the illegality of settlements.

During a press conference and in response to questions from local newspapers, Rashid emphasized the United Kingdom’s commitment to Kuwait’s security and stability, as well as the continuation of defense cooperation between the two countries. This includes the deployment of the “Rapid Centurion” anti-drone system, support for air defense capabilities, training, and the exchange of expertise. He affirmed that bilateral relations are moving toward expanding partnerships in investment, technology, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, clean energy, education, and healthcare.

Regarding Kuwaiti-British affairs, Rashid stated that the UK’s commitment to Kuwait’s security and stability is reflected in a broad and extensive partnership encompassing defense cooperation, military training, professional exchanges, strategic dialogue, and close diplomatic communication. He noted that Britain stood by Kuwait during the crisis with Iran, working closely with Kuwaiti partners to support regional security and stability. He explained that the UK deployed the “Rapid Centurion” air defense and anti-drone system in Kuwait following Iranian strikes in the region to help protect British and Kuwaiti personnel and interests.

Rashid confirmed that the system has remained in Kuwait since last April, noting that British military personnel responsible for operating it are still in the country and will continue to work on air defense efforts in coordination with the Kuwaiti side. He added that the UK provided additional support through “Orca” anti-unmanned aerial system capabilities, continuing to exchange expertise, training, and operational experiences to enhance Kuwait’s readiness and capacity to address evolving threats.

He clarified that cooperation also includes British air control officers at the air defense operations center, and British military personnel working alongside their Kuwaiti counterparts and military personnel from other countries within command headquarters to contribute to the protection of Kuwaiti airspace. Additionally, British companies are holding discussions with Kuwaiti military authorities regarding the supply of modern defensive technologies.

When asked about the number of “Rapid Centurion” systems, Rashid clarified that there is only one British system in Kuwait, which is not a single aircraft or piece of equipment, but an integrated system comprising means for surveillance, detection, tracking, and countering drones. It connects with command centers to determine how to handle aerial threats. He pointed out that the British system covers a specific part of Kuwaiti airspace, as a single system cannot cover the entire country. He noted that other systems are present in Kuwait, the United States, and Jordan, covering different areas, but declined to disclose the location of the British system.

Regarding satellite cooperation, he said there is an exchange of information and satellite images, alongside discussions between governments and the private sector regarding the potential for additional support. However, he clarified that satellites do not monitor everything, and radars are more effective in the rapid detection of incoming ballistic missiles and drones, given the short time frame between missile launch and impact, which can be less than two or three minutes.

On the issue of a Palestinian state, Rashid stated that the British government saw the need to change its approach toward Israel in light of the threats facing the prospects of a Palestinian state. He explained that the British Foreign Secretary presented the outlines of this change before Parliament, in press interviews, and during a Labour Party conference. He added that the Foreign Secretary publicly criticized what he described as the “ethnic cleansing” carried out by settlers in the West Bank, noting that the Israeli government sometimes ignores the actions of these settlers.

Regarding Gaza, he said the Foreign Secretary spoke of credible evidence of war crimes, affirming the UK’s support for independent investigations into what occurred, whether before the International Criminal Court or the International Court of Justice. He clarified that the change in the British position will be accompanied by specific measures, including expanding sanctions related to illegal settlements, banning the import of products from them into the UK, and preventing British companies from providing services that support those settlements. He specified that the ban would include, for example, advertising homes in settlements for sale within the UK, as well as providing banking services or British construction companies participating in projects that support the creation or expansion of settlements.

He noted that many countries in the region have consistently expressed concern over the expansion of settlements and welcomed stronger international efforts to support international law and preserve the possibility of a two-state solution.

Regarding coordination with Kuwait and Gulf countries concerning settlement products, he said Britain remains in close contact with its partners in the region, including Kuwait, on a wide range of Middle East issues, but trade policy decisions ultimately remain the purview of each government. He added that the British government has also expanded the scope of arms export restrictions to Israel. He explained that previous restrictions focused on preventing the export of arms that might be used in military operations in Gaza, while the new scope includes arms that might be used to entrench the illegal occupation of the West Bank.

Rashid affirmed that “the rhetoric has changed, the policy has changed, and the measures have changed,” while stressing that these steps do not signify British hostility toward Israel or its people, and that his country still views the two-state solution as the option capable of achieving peace and protecting the interests of both Palestinians and Israelis.

Regarding October 7, he said the attacks were condemned, and Hamas should not have a future role in governing Gaza. He added that Israel has a legitimate right to defend itself, but that “does not justify what Gaza has witnessed in recent years.” He noted that the British Foreign Secretary also explained his position based on his identity as a British Jew, affirming the possibility of supporting Israel’s right to exist while simultaneously criticizing its government’s actions.

He pointed out that Britain is not alone in changing its stance, mentioning France and Canada among the countries cited by the Foreign Secretary, along with other nations that have taken steps regarding settlements or are considering similar measures.

On ballistic missiles, he added that while they can cause significant damage if they hit their targets, they are relatively easier to detect and intercept. Drones, however, pose a greater challenge due to the ability to launch large numbers of them and the difficulty in detecting and countering them.

He affirmed that Britain views defense cooperation with Kuwait on two levels: addressing current threats and working together over the next three to five years to develop the capabilities needed to face future threats. He clarified that the defense relationship between the two countries is deep and multifaceted, having evolved over decades. It includes military training, defense education, operational cooperation, security consultations, and regular high-level dialogue between the armed forces and the two governments.

He noted that the British military mission has been a cornerstone of defense cooperation between the two countries for over 30 years, with its personnel permanently stationed in Kuwait and working with the Kuwaiti Armed Forces to provide training, advice, and expertise in a wide range of defense capability areas. He added that the mission has continued its cooperation and training with Kuwaiti partners, including the National Guard, affirming that these activities enhance capabilities and interoperability, contributing to collective security and regional stability. He also noted that Britain maintains a significant defense presence in the region, reflecting its long-term commitment to the security of its Gulf partners.

Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Rashid said his country has discussed the file with Kuwait and that closing the strait is unacceptable. He called on Iran to open it immediately and unconditionally and to restore freedom of navigation. He added that disrupting navigation harms Kuwait and the world, affirming that the solution must be diplomatic, through a return to negotiations, rather than military.

He stressed that the UK considers Kuwait a close strategic partner and old friend, and that the importance of the Gulf to global energy supplies and international trade makes cooperation with Kuwait and regional partners to support maritime security, de-escalation, and freedom of navigation a continuous priority. He clarified that Britain continues to contribute to international efforts to ensure the safe passage of commercial ships through major sea lanes, remains in close dialogue with Kuwait regarding regional security challenges, and continuously assesses how to utilize defense, security, and diplomatic cooperation to support stability and prosperity in the Gulf.

He said his country is committed to working with Kuwait, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, and the international community to protect freedom of navigation and international trade routes, noting that safe sea lanes are essential for global prosperity. He added that the UK played a leading role in establishing the multinational maritime mission for the Strait of Hormuz and continues to work with partners to enhance maritime security. He explained that the multinational task force conducts training and maritime security activities in the vicinity of the strait to help deter threats, reassure commercial shipping, and support the free flow of trade and energy supplies in accordance with international law.

Regarding steps Britain might take if threats to commercial ships continue, he said it will continue to work with allies and partners to protect freedom of navigation and the safe movement of ships through international waters, including contributing to multinational maritime security arrangements in and around the Strait of Hormuz. He affirmed that the British response is under continuous review and that his country is ready to work with international partners through appropriate diplomatic, security, and defense measures to protect navigation, reduce risks to sailors, and uphold international law.

He stressed that the challenges facing the region cannot be addressed by any single country alone, and that international cooperation is essential to reduce tensions, enhance stability, and protect the rules-based international order. He affirmed Britain’s support for dialogue, diplomacy, and collective action among regional and international partners, which enhances the handling of shared challenges and reduces the risk of escalation.

Regarding developments in Yemen and the Bab al-Mandab, Rashid described the regional situation as unstable, expressing concern over Houthi movements in recent weeks. He affirmed the UK’s unequivocal condemnation of renewed attacks on Saudi Arabia, including strikes targeting civilian infrastructure and energy facilities, and the continued threat to international navigation. He said these attacks endanger civilians, destabilize the region, and threaten vital trade routes and energy supplies. He stressed that the Houthis pose a serious threat to Gulf security, freedom of navigation, and the global economy.

He called on the Houthis to immediately cease their attacks and return to the path of negotiations under UN mediation, affirming that continued fighting will not yield positive results and that there is no long-term military solution, but rather a sustainable settlement achieved through diplomacy and negotiations. He clarified that his country remains in close contact with Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and other Gulf partners regarding air defense, maritime security, and the protection of vital national infrastructure. This cooperation includes training, defense communication, information exchange, and coordination on shared regional threats.

He added that Britain supports Saudi defenses and stands by Kuwait in the field of defense. He noted that British ground-based air defense equipment and British military personnel were present in Saudi Arabia before the recent attack to help counter missile and drone attacks. He said that in response to a request from the Saudi government, the UK agreed to provide one Royal Air Force “Voyager” aircraft for aerial refueling to support Saudi defensive activities in defending the Kingdom and the legitimate government in Yemen, allowing Saudi aircraft to remain airborne for longer periods.

On the economic file, Rashid said deepening the economic partnership between Kuwait and the UK was one of his main priorities during the past year. He expressed pride in the progress made in strengthening trade links, supporting new business opportunities in multiple sectors, and working with partners in both countries to encourage investment and trade.

He considered the conclusion of negotiations on the Free Trade Agreement between the UK and the GCC countries an important milestone that lays the foundations for a more ambitious economic relationship in the coming years. He clarified that the agreement has not yet entered into force, and that the UK and the GCC, including Kuwait, are required to complete their necessary domestic procedures for ratification and implementation in their laws. He affirmed the strong commitment of both sides to sign it and realize its benefits as soon as possible.

He said there is currently no clear date for the agreement to enter into force and that he does not wish to speculate on the timing, expressing hope for progress in the coming months and the completion of procedures as quickly as possible, while confirming that the date remains undecided. He added that the agreement aims to facilitate trade and investment, making them more transparent and predictable, removing barriers and tariffs, facilitating the movement of goods and services, creating new opportunities for businesses, and supporting economic diversification and long-term growth in both countries.

He noted that Kuwait’s gains extend beyond trade exchange to include deepening investment and enhancing partnerships in finance, technology, and clean energy, supporting diversification ambitions, and providing a stronger platform for joint growth in future industries.