Israeli Minister Demands Closure of British Consulate in East Jerusalem

Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has formally requested Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Foreign Minister G Gideon Saar to close the British Consulate in East Jerusalem. Ben-Gvir also called for revoking work visas for British diplomats and shutting down the British Council and any other organizations operating under the consulate's umbrella for Palestinian Authority residents.

This demand follows reports of impending sanctions by the United Kingdom against Israel. Minister Ben-Gvir asserted in a letter that the British move is not random but a direct consequence of a long-standing policy of ignoring provocations and "friendly" policies that repeatedly undermine Israel's status as an independent and sovereign nation, particularly its sovereignty in Jerusalem.

Ben-Gvir stated that Israel's government response must be "sharp and clear, closing the British Consulate in East Jerusalem and sending all consuls back to their country of origin." He criticized the consulate's very operation in Jerusalem, labeling it a "consulate for the terror-supporting Palestinian Authority" that functions while enjoying all the privileges and conveniences granted by Israel.

Furthermore, he addressed the activities of the British Council in Jerusalem and the Palestinian territories, noting that Britain funds specific foundations for preserving Palestinian heritage and programs enabling artists to research and document this history. Ben-Gvir concluded by emphasizing that Britain is acting towards Israel as if during the Mandate period, and it must be unequivocally made clear that the Mandate has ended and Israel, as a sovereign state, will not accept activities undermining its sovereignty within its territory.