Israel Threatens to Close British Consulate Over Gaza Mission

Israel has threatened to close the British Consulate in East Jerusalem and has given British diplomats 30 days to leave the country, according to Israeli sources. This action comes in response to Britain's participation in a US-led mission coordinating aid for Gaza, operating out of Kiryat Gat in southern Israel. British diplomats involved in this mission, as well as those residing in Ramallah, will reportedly be asked to leave within seven days.

British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband warned of negative repercussions from the potential closure of the consulate, stating it would have adverse effects. He also accused the Israeli government of overlooking settler violence against Palestinians, alleging that settlers are displacing Palestinians from their homes.

The Israeli Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa'ar, had previously called on Britain to close its consulate in East Jerusalem, which is accredited to the Palestinian Authority. This Israeli move follows Britain, France, and Canada's announcement of a ban on imports from Israeli settlements. The Israeli government is reportedly preparing to discuss retaliatory measures against countries that supported these sanctions.

France and Sweden also maintain consulates in Jerusalem accredited to the Palestinian Authority, while Canada operates a diplomatic office in Ramallah. The article notes past instances of Israel closing Palestinian diplomatic offices.