UK Renames East Jerusalem Consulate as ‘UK Mission’ Amid Diplomatic Dispute with Israel

British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband announced that the United Kingdom’s consulate in occupied East Jerusalem will continue operations on a smaller scale and be renamed a “UK mission” following Israel’s order to close it. The move comes amid a diplomatic dispute over the UK’s sanctions on Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, which Israel claims are illegal under international law.

Israel had mandated the consulate’s closure by Thursday, citing the UK’s sanctions as a violation of its sovereignty. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that Israel has authorized the UK to continue operating from the building in a limited capacity with seven diplomats. He noted that 20 diplomats, including the British consul general, would leave Israel, marking a significant reduction in the UK’s diplomatic presence.

Earlier on Thursday, Reuters journalists observed workers removing a plaque reading “British Consulate General” from the building, along with a sign for its consular section. Despite these changes, the UK flag remained flying over the premises. Miliband emphasized that the UK does not accept Israel’s claim to close the consulate, stating that the building will continue to provide essential services and engage with the Palestinian people.

The consulate, located in East Jerusalem—a territory Israel captured during the 1967 war and has occupied since—has been a focal point of diplomatic tensions. Miliband mentioned that the UK has already withdrawn several staff and families in recent weeks and plans to rebuild its presence. He also noted that the UK would refrain from reciprocal actions against Israel while diplomatic talks continue.

Saar reiterated Israel’s stance, stating that the measures were implemented in accordance with a principle that “no action can be taken against Israel without Israel taking appropriate retaliatory measures.” He linked the sanctions to a September 8 announcement, underscoring Israel’s position on the matter.

The United Nations and most countries classify Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank as illegal under international law, a position Israel disputes. Miliband’s statement highlights the UK’s commitment to maintaining its diplomatic presence despite the challenges, while also seeking to balance its foreign policy with Israel.

The downgrading of the consulate to a mission reflects a deterioration in UK-Israeli relations, according to Al Jazeera’s Camille Nedelec. The situation underscores the complex interplay of diplomatic, legal, and geopolitical factors in the region.

Source: Read the original report