UK Confirms Israeli Air Force Chief Granted Diplomatic Immunity During Visit

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The UK government has confirmed that Israeli Air Force chief Major General Tomer Bar was given “special mission” diplomatic immunity during a visit to Britain earlier this summer. The immunity protected him from possible arrest under international laws that allow the prosecution of foreign officials accused of war crimes.

General Bar travelled to Oxfordshire in July to attend the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford, one of the world’s largest military airshows. The visit was not publicly announced at the time, but Israeli media reported on his trip shortly before his arrival.

In a statement, the UK Foreign Office confirmed that Bar had been in Britain and was covered by “special mission” immunity for the duration of his stay. This provision is sometimes extended to visiting foreign officials on official business, allowing them to engage in government or military talks without legal risk.

The immunity given to Bar follows a broader pattern in which senior Israeli officials have received similar protections when travelling to the UK. In recent years, Defence Minister Benny Gantz and Israeli Defence Forces Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi were also granted “special mission” certificates. Such moves ensure high-level meetings can take place without legal interruptions.

The revelation comes just as Israeli President Isaac Herzog prepares for a scheduled visit to the UK. His trip has already drawn criticism, with campaigners planning demonstrations in London and other cities. Activist groups argue that the UK’s use of immunity provisions undermines accountability.

British officials have underlined that Israel remains an important security and defence partner. The Ministry of Defence noted that dignitaries from many allied nations attend the airshow and that cooperation with Israel continues across military and defence fields.