Israel Closes British Consulate in Jerusalem, Imposes Sanctions Over UK Actions

In a sharp retaliatory move, Israel announced on Sunday that it will close the British Consulate in Jerusalem and impose other sanctions against the United Kingdom. The decision, made by Foreign Minister G Gideon Sa'ar with the approval of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is a direct response to a series of new sanctions announced by the British Foreign Secretary.

Among the Israeli countermeasures are the expulsion of British representatives from the international aid center for Gaza in Kiryat Gat, the cessation of British activities training Palestinian Authority forces in the West Bank, and a ban on entry into Israel for 12 British public figures and citizens involved in antisemitic and anti-Israel activities.

Foreign Minister Sa'ar vehemently criticized the actions of the British Labour government, labeling their accusations as "scandalous and false." He accused the UK of attempting to interfere in Israel's elections for internal political reasons ahead of a party conference, drawing a parallel to British actions during the Mandate period aimed at punishing Jews economically. Sa'ar also noted the irony of the British decision, given Britain's role in the Balfour Declaration over a century ago.

Sa'ar stated that the British measures follow a series of "hostile actions" since July 2024, including recognition of a Palestinian state, renewed funding for UNRWA, and the suspension of trade and arms agreements. He affirmed that Israel will act decisively against any country that takes action against it.