As UK consulate closes, FM Sa'ar vows Israel will 'take revenge' on hostile countries - exclusive

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa ar stated on Thursday that the era of tolerating hostile acts against Israel has come to an end. In an interview with The Jerusalem Post, Sa ar warned that Britain's Labour government risks losing regional influence as Israel responds to sanctions and diplomatic measures. The foreign minister defended the closure of the British Consulate in Jerusalem, stating that any state that acts against Israel must expect a retaliation.

Since September 8, Israel has taken several retaliatory actions, including closing the British Consulate, removing British representatives from the International Gaza Support Center, and barring British officials from entering the country. The closure also resulted in the departure of about 20 British diplomats from Jerusalem. Sa ar accused the Labour government of pursuing a hostile policy toward Israel, citing measures targeting Israeli officials, organizations, trade negotiations, and military cooperation.

Despite the strained relations, Sa ar emphasized the importance of continued diplomatic dialogue between Jerusalem and London, though he expressed little optimism about a significant change in British policy under the current government. Sa ar also highlighted that Israel continues to provide valuable assistance in intelligence and security cooperation to Britain, despite the deteriorating relationship.