‘These actions are indefensible’ FBU demands release of fire engine blocked by Israeli authorities
Iain Hoey
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Fire engine donation for Palestinian firefighters impounded in Israel
On 18 November, members of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) protested at the Israeli embassy in London, calling for the release of a fire engine donated to Palestinian firefighters.
The vehicle, equipped with lifesaving gear, has been held by Israeli customs since August 2024.
The donation, organised by FBU members in Scotland, was intended to support rescue operations in the West Bank.
The engine was transported from Dundee to Southampton and shipped to the Israeli port of Ashdod.
Despite having the required documentation, the vehicle has been blocked from entering Palestine.
Full letter submitted to Israeli ambassador
During the protest, FBU members presented a letter addressed to Tzipi Hotovely, Israeli ambassador to the UK, demanding the immediate release of the fire engine.
The letter, signed by FBU general secretary Matt Wrack, highlighted the humanitarian nature of the donation.
The letter read: “Firefighters are humanitarians, and cannot simply watch and do nothing as we witness such terrifying conditions continue to unfold.
“Firefighters understand all too well the dangers and challenges being faced by rescue workers in Palestine working in such dangerous conditions to try to save and protect lives.”
It continued: “Even though this vehicle and its equipment serve the sole purpose of saving and protecting lives, the appliance has been blocked by Israeli authorities since August 2024. These actions are indefensible.
“We insist that this life saving equipment be immediately granted entry to begin assisting the humanitarian and lifesaving actions of Palestinian firefighters.”
FBU appeals for government intervention
FBU general secretary Matt Wrack reinforced calls for action, urging both Israeli and UK authorities to ensure the vehicle reaches its intended destination.
He said: “Firefighters in Palestine are working to save lives in horrifying conditions. As humanitarians, we cannot stand by while lives are being lost.”
He added: “The Fire Brigades Union calls on the Israeli government to release the donated fire engine immediately, and for the UK government to take any necessary action to ensure this aid is delivered safely.”
Background on the humanitarian initiative
The fire engine and its equipment were sourced and donated by FBU members to assist Palestinian firefighters facing critical resource shortages.
The donation reflects the union’s longstanding tradition of solidarity with firefighters globally.
The engine is equipped with firefighting kits, personal protective equipment, breathing apparatus, and medical supplies, all intended to support rescue operations in the challenging conditions of the West Bank.
UK firefighters protest over impounded Palestinian fire engine: Summary
Members of the Fire Brigades Union protested at the Israeli embassy in London on 18 November, demanding the release of a fire engine blocked by Israeli authorities since August.
The vehicle, fully stocked with lifesaving equipment, was donated by Scottish firefighters to support Palestinian emergency services.
During the protest, the FBU submitted a letter to the Israeli ambassador, condemning the impoundment and calling for the vehicle’s immediate release.
FBU general secretary Matt Wrack emphasised the union’s humanitarian commitment, urging both Israeli and UK governments to take action.
Efforts to secure the fire engine’s release are ongoing.