Nahost-Konflikt: Britisches Konsulat in Ost-Jerusalem formell geschlossen

Britain's historic consulate in East Jerusalem formally closed after pressure from Israel. The decision came after Israel gave Britain a 30-day deadline to close, which ended on Thursday. Israel's move was triggered by Britain imposing sanctions on Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, including a trade ban on goods manufactured in the Palestinian territory.

The British government stated that the UK mission within the consulate building would continue on a smaller scale and under the name "UK Mission." The closure is seen as a compromise aimed at averting a larger diplomatic crisis between the two allies. The consulate in East Jerusalem had been operating since 1839, long before Israel's establishment in 1948.

Its role was to manage Britain's relations with Palestinians in Jerusalem, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip, and it served as the main point of contact for consular services. The British embassy in Tel Aviv remained unaffected by the recent measures. This formal closure represents a new low-point in the relationship between Israel and Britain.

Britain has repeatedly criticized Israel over its actions during the Gaza war and the attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, which is in its election campaign, is facing growing criticism. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, who is seen as a moderate in the government, announced the cessation of the East Jerusalem consulate's activities.

However, some British diplomats will reportedly be allowed to continue their work in the building as part of an agreement. The British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband emphasized that Israel has no right to close the consulate. The consulate is located in a part of the city captured by Israel in the Six-Day War of 1967 and later annexed, a move not recognized by most countries.

The annexation of adjoining West Bank is also considered illegal under international law. Israel, however, has continued its settlement activities in the area. The EU has imposed sanctions on Jewish settlers. More: Germany has not joined new sanctions against Israeli settlers.