Most UK Diplomats to Depart East Jerusalem Consulate, Israel Confirms Amid Sanctions Row

Israel has stated that the majority of diplomats from the British consulate in East Jerusalem will depart the country, in response to the United Kingdom's sanctions against Israeli settlements in the West Bank. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar confirmed that 20 diplomats, including the Consul General, would leave, though a seven-person task force could remain in the building with a limited scope of activity.

UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband countered that some staff had been "temporarily withdrawn" due to security concerns. Miliband emphasized that the building "will not be closing" and will continue to operate as a "UK Mission."

Highlights

• Israel announced the departure of most diplomats from the British consulate in East Jerusalem, in retaliation for UK sanctions on illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank.
• Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that 20 diplomats, including the Consul General, would leave, but a seven-person task force with limited activities could remain.
• UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband confirmed staff had been "temporarily withdrawn" for security reasons, but stressed the mission would "work with the Palestinian people."
• The UK reiterated its long-standing view that East Jerusalem is occupied territory and does not accept Israel's right to close the consulate.
• The consulate building will remain British government property and operate as the "UK Mission, Jerusalem."

Details

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar posted on social media that Israel had implemented measures announced on September 8 in response to UK sanctions. Saar stated that the Consul General and 20 diplomats would conclude their duties and leave Israel. However, he acknowledged that the building is British government property and authorized a "task force of only seven diplomats with a very limited scope of activity" to operate within it.

UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband confirmed that following discussions with the Israeli government, the building "will not be closing" and would be known as the "UK Mission, Jerusalem." Nevertheless, Miliband noted that an understanding on "necessary assurances for the security and protections of our staff and premises" had not been reached, leading to the temporary withdrawal of some staff and their families for safety.

The consulate, established in 1838, manages the UK's relations with Palestinians in Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Gaza. It is distinct from the UK embassy in Tel Aviv, which serves as the primary diplomatic hub with Israel.

Why it matters

This development escalates diplomatic tensions between the UK and Israel and highlights ongoing international disputes over the status of East Jerusalem. The UK's refusal to accept Israel's right to close the consulate and its stance on East Jerusalem as occupied territory represent a significant point of friction. This situation could impact diplomatic relations in the region and the broader application of international law.