UK not deploying UK assets to Israel but HMS Duncan in the region

There are no plans to redeploy UK military assets to Israel following attacks by the Hamas militant group that killed at least 1,200 Israelis, the Prime Minister's official spokesperson has said.

There are assets already in the region, he added, including HMS Duncan in the Mediterranean – which is under Nato command – and a permanent maritime presence in the Gulf and a base in Akrotiri.

The spokesperson added: "The UK and Israel has a broad defence and security relationship – and we stand ready to offer humanitarian support as well."

• HMS Duncan leads Nato task groups through Mediterranean minefield scenario
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The Royal Navy destroyer HMS Duncan is currently the flagship for Nato's Standing Maritime Group 2.

The Type 45 is leading the group, made up of five warships, that will patrol waters between Gibraltar and the eastern shore of the Mediterranean.

On an exercise in August, HMS Duncan led Nato destroyers, frigates and minehunters through a simulated minefield to practise keeping strategic shipping routes open.