The United Kingdom will maintain its diplomatic presence in East Jerusalem despite an Israeli order to close its nearly 200-year-old consulate.
British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband said Thursday that the building would remain open under a new name, the UK Mission, Jerusalem. He said the mission would continue providing services and working with Palestinians.
UK Rejects Israeli Authority to Close Consulate
Miliband said Britain does not recognise Israel’s legal authority to close the consulate. He also reaffirmed London’s position that East Jerusalem is occupied territory.
Britain temporarily withdrew some staff and their families for security reasons. However, officials said London plans to rebuild its diplomatic presence in the coming months.
The UK also said it would not take reciprocal action against Israeli diplomats while discussions continue.
Dispute Follows Settlement Sanctions
The diplomatic dispute began after Britain announced measures targeting Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank.
The measures included a ban on imports of goods produced in Israeli settlements. Israel responded by ordering the British consulate to close within 30 days.
The consulate handles Britain’s relations with Palestinians in East Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza. It also provides consular services.
Israel Says Diplomats Will Leave
Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said the consulate had ceased operating in its previous capacity. He said 20 British diplomats, including the consul general, would leave Israel.
According to Israeli officials, seven British diplomats will remain at the building with limited responsibilities. The British Embassy in Tel Aviv remains unaffected.
The latest arrangement reflects the growing diplomatic tensions between Britain and Israel. Both governments, however, said discussions over the future of the mission would continue.
For the latest updates, visit and follow The Truth International website (www.thetruthinternational.com) and subscribe to the YouTube Channel.
