Israel accidentally exposes Gaza military bases and widespread destruction on official map

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa ar has been striving to convince foreign governments to establish their embassies in Jerusalem for nearly two years. This diplomatic effort is not merely about diplomatic houses; it is a crucial part of Israel's strategic positioning in the international system, which Sa ar perceives as a component of national security, alongside the ongoing conflicts in the region.

The campaign has been successful, with Colombia becoming the 10th country to open an embassy in Jerusalem and an understanding with the Democratic Republic of Congo on a similar matter. For Sa ar, the rising number of embassies in Jerusalem signifies a significant diplomatic achievement. He firmly believes that progress in this realm is a result of his targeted efforts.

However, the expansion of Israel's diplomatic network in Jerusalem is not without challenges. Moving an embassy to Jerusalem is no simple decision for a foreign government, as it may invite criticism from the Palestinians, Arab states, and other parts of the international community. Sa ar acknowledged that every decision to move an embassy is significant, as it often begins long before a leader takes office, with Israel having to ask for permission, while also asserting its own interests.

In contrast to his diplomatic endeavors, Sa ar's relations with the UK have hit an "unprecedented low" due to disagreements over Israeli settlements in the West Bank. Israel has responded to these tensions by closing the British Consulate in east Jerusalem, restricting the activities of British representatives, and declaring several British figures as persona non grata.

Looking ahead, Sa ar is not focusing solely on the current Labour government, but rather on the broader political landscape. He highlighted how the criticism of Labour's Israel policy from other parties, like Conservatives and Reform UK, reflects the fluid nature of diplomatic relations. Just as Israel's stance on Iran's nuclear program remains unyielding, Sa ar is confident that the international community will continue to engage in dialogue, albeit in a dynamic and complex fashion.