Ben-Gvir Demands Immediate Closure of British Consulate in Jerusalem

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has called for the immediate closure of the British Consulate in East Jerusalem and the revocation of visas for British diplomats, escalating a dispute with the United Kingdom. The demand comes in response to anticipated British sanctions against Israel, which Ben-Gvir described as a "scandalous step" stemming from years of "ignoring repeated provocations" and a "friendly policy" that undermines Israel's sovereignty, particularly in Jerusalem.

Ben-Gvir criticized the long-standing British presence in Jerusalem, referring to the consulate as an "embassy" for the Palestinian Authority, which he characterized as "terror-supporting." He argued that Britain enjoys privileges and conveniences granted by Israel while operating in the capital. He also targeted the British Council's activities in Jerusalem and the Palestinian territories, noting its funding of projects for Palestinian heritage preservation and programs that enable artists to document Palestinian history.

In his letter to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister of Strategic Affairs Gideon Sa'ar, Ben-Gvir asserted that Britain's conduct resembles that of the Mandate era, issuing "orders" to Israel. He stressed that the Mandate has long ended and Israel is a sovereign nation that will not permit activities undermining its sovereignty within its borders.

Ben-Gvir's demands include ordering the immediate closure of the British Consulate in East Jerusalem, revoking work visas for British diplomats, and ceasing the operations of the British Council and any other organizations acting on behalf of the consulate for residents of the Palestinian Authority. The minister's strong stance reflects a significant hardening of rhetoric in response to perceived British actions against Israel.