Israel Considers Expelling British Representatives From Gaza Coordination Headquarters Amid Rising Tensions

Israel is reportedly considering expelling British representatives from the International Coordination Headquarters for Gaza located in Kiryat Gat, due to escalating criticism from London over Israeli government policies. This development was reported by the Financial Times on August 27, 2026. The headquarters, established in October 2025 and led by American officers alongside the IDF and representatives from about 50 countries and international organizations, oversees the implementation of the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

The consideration to remove British personnel follows Israel's recent decision to expel Dutch representatives from the same headquarters. Dutch diplomats were ordered to leave within a week after the Netherlands passed a law banning trade in products from Judea, Samaria, East Jerusalem, and the Golan Heights, effective next month. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar stated, "Our message is clear: those who act against Israel will have no foothold in the area. Israel will not allow steps against it without response." Earlier this year, Spanish representatives were also expelled.

In addition to Britain, Israel has reportedly examined similar measures against German and Italian representatives, though officials from these countries have denied any plans for expulsion. There is a dispute over whether Israel can unilaterally remove representatives or if approval from the U.S.-led Peace Council is required. The Peace Council said it continues efforts to maintain and strengthen multinational coordination.

The tensions arise amid a backdrop of increased European criticism of Israeli settlement policies. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham recently pledged to promote a ban on trade in goods from the West Bank, while Britain, Germany, Italy, and nearly 20 other countries and the European Commission jointly opposed construction tenders in the E1 area near Ma'ale Adumim. British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband declared that Britain would not accept actions undermining the two-state solution.

Despite a recent visit by U.S. envoy Jared Kushner to the region, no breakthrough has been achieved in resolving these disputes. British sources appear unfazed by the potential expulsion, viewing it as a predictable retaliation following actions against Spain and the Netherlands. Israeli officials maintain that relations with Germany and Italy remain good, and the Prime Minister’s office and German officials declined to comment on the reports.