UK threatens tit-for-tat after Israel rebuffs plea on closure of Jerusalem consulate
The UK 's top national security official visited Israel last week in a futile bid to prevent the closure of the British Consulate General in Jerusalem, which was ordered by the Israeli government last month. National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell held talks with Israeli officials but failed to reach an agreement to keep the mission open. The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office said it…
Last week, the UK's top national security official, Jonathan Powell, made a visit to Israel in an attempt to prevent the closure of the British Consulate General in Jerusalem. The consulate, established in 1838, plays a crucial role in handling the UK's relations with Palestinians in East Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Gaza. Powell's mission also included a visit to Jordan to meet with King Abdullah II.
However, despite Powell's discussions with Israeli officials, Israel proceeded with the closure of the consulate. The UK is contemplating the expulsion of Israeli diplomats from Britain if the closure continues. The Israeli government has accused the UK of damaging relations by announcing sanctions targeting Israeli settlements in the West Bank, which they deem illegal.
The closure is seen by the UK as an unlawful assertion of Israeli sovereignty over occupied East Jerusalem and a further attempt to exercise powers beyond those permitted to an occupier.
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