Israel Considers Expelling British and Other European Representatives from Gaza Coordination Center

Following the expulsion of Dutch and Spanish representatives, Israel is reportedly considering removing British officials and possibly other European diplomats from the Civil-Military Coordination Center (CMCC) in Kiryat Gat. The center was established under former U.S. President Donald Trump's peace plan for Gaza. According to sources cited by the Financial Times on Thursday, this move is a response to criticism of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's policies in the West Bank. Israeli officials have been discussing the potential removal of the UK delegation, with similar actions considered against Italy and Germany.

Earlier this week, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar announced the expulsion of Dutch representatives from the CMCC, citing a series of anti-Israel measures by the Dutch government, including legislation banning trade with Israeli products from the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Golan Heights, effective next month. Spain's representatives were also expelled earlier this year due to what Israel described as Madrid's obsessive anti-Israel bias.

The possible expulsion of representatives from traditionally close allies signals a significant deterioration in Israel's relations with Western powers, exacerbated by ongoing conflicts in multiple arenas and Israeli government actions in the West Bank. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has recently indicated intentions to toughen London's stance on Israel, including potential trade bans on settlement products. Last week, 21 countries, including the UK, condemned Israel's approval of the E1 plan, calling it a "death blow" to the Palestinian state and a violation of international law. The UK summoned Israel's ambassador, Tzipi Hotovely, in response.

Sources suggest that any further expulsions might require approval from the U.S.-led Peace Council overseeing Gaza's reconstruction. However, another source emphasized Israel's sovereign right to decide which foreign representatives remain on its territory. The Peace Council stated it continues dialogue with Israeli counterparts to maintain and enhance multilateral coordination and advance the comprehensive peace plan for Gaza. The Israeli Prime Minister's Office declined to comment, and an Italian official dismissed rumors about Italy and Germany's removal from the committee.