UK must remain in Jerusalem 'at all costs', says former diplomat
The UK should keep a diplomatic presence in Jerusalem at all costs to prevent Israeli claims to the disputed city, a former British diplomat has said. Sir Vincent Fean, who served as British Consul General in Jerusalem , said the UK’s historic presence in Jerusalem was critical to maintaining British policy that views the city as a shared capital. It has held a mission in the city for 200 years.…
Former British diplomat Sir Vincent Fean has warned that the UK must maintain a diplomatic presence in Jerusalem to avoid Israeli claims to the contested city. Sir Vincent, who served as British Consul General in Jerusalem for 200 years, emphasized the importance of the UK's historic presence in preserving British policy that views Jerusalem as a shared capital.
The UK maintains a Consulate General in the city, which Israel has threatened to close due to trade sanctions on Israeli settlements in the West Bank. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that the building would house a limited task force, while the UK Foreign Secretary, Ed Miliband, stated that the building would remain open as a mission.
The downgrade in status aims to allow continued talks and minimize the risk of a permanent rupture in relations, but concerns have been raised about the impact on consular services for British citizens and Palestinians. Some British charities have warned that the closure could hinder aid delivery efforts in the Palestinian territories.
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