Israel forces out British diplomats in Jerusalem over West Bank sanctions

Israel has instructed the majority of British diplomats to leave the British Consulate in occupied East Jerusalem, following UK sanctions imposed on West Bank settlements. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar confirmed the measures taken in response to British sanctions, stating that Israel has implemented its announced commitments since September 8.

According to Sa'ar, the British Consulate in Jerusalem is shutting down its operations, and its plaque has been removed, although the British flag remains visible outside the building. Limited diplomatic staff are still present inside the building. Sa'ar noted that talks with the British government led to an agreement, with the Consul General and 20 diplomats ending their duties and leaving Israel, while a "skeleton staff of only seven diplomats with a very limited scope of operations" will remain inside.

British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband revealed that the United Kingdom has temporarily withdrawn some staff for security reasons. Miliband emphasized that the mission "will continue to work with the Palestinian people" and that the UK does not accept Israel's right to close the consulate. He reiterated London's stance that East Jerusalem is occupied territory.

The British sanctions against settlements were announced last September, and Israel responded by closing the consulate within 30 days. British diplomats manage UK relations with Palestinians in Jerusalem, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip.