UK makes attempt to prevent Israel from closing East Jerusalem consulate

The British government is making a last-ditch effort to stop Israel from closing the British consulate in East Jerusalem later this week, according to reports by the BBC and Anadolu Ajansı. Israel previously stated in September that it would shut the diplomatic mission in retaliation for sanctions announced by the UK against illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, the BBC reported. [1][2][6]

The British consulate in East Jerusalem operates separately from the UK embassy located in Tel Aviv and manages British relations with Palestinians in the city, according to the BBC. British sanctions ban settlement goods and apply measures against individuals and companies providing services for settlement expansion. [1]

The Guardian and The Times reported that Britain has threatened to expel Israeli diplomats if Israel closes the consulate. Anadolu Ajansı noted that the Foreign Office declined to comment on speculation regarding the possible expulsion of diplomats. [2][3][6]

East Jerusalem is considered occupied Palestinian territory under international law by the United Nations, while Israel considers the area part of its territory. [9][11]