UK May Expel Israeli Diplomats Amid Jerusalem Consulate Dispute

Britain is reportedly considering expelling approximately 30 Israeli diplomats if Israel proceeds with closing the British consulate in Jerusalem's Shimon HaTzadik (Sheikh Jarrah) neighborhood. This potential move, revealed by four sources familiar with the situation to Reuters, could escalate the diplomatic conflict between the two nations.

Israel ordered the closure of the British consulate in Jerusalem and the recall of its diplomats within 30 days on September 8. This action was a response to London's intention to ban trade in goods produced in Israeli settlements in the West Bank. The deadline for the consulate's closure is Thursday, October 8.

Sources indicate that the closure would affect around 30 British diplomats and their families. In retaliation, London is expected to expel a comparable number of Israeli embassy staff from the UK. The timeline for such a reciprocal measure remains unclear.

Earlier reports from "Walla!" suggested that the British side had warned Israel of the possible expulsion of 27 Israeli diplomats and their families. The British Ambassador to Israel, Simon Walters, reportedly conveyed this message to Israeli officials. The Times of Israel also noted this threat, citing a principle of "one diplomat in response to every British diplomat whose work in Jerusalem is terminated."

Efforts to avert a diplomatic rupture have been underway. UK National Security Advisor Jonathan Powell secretly visited Israel to negotiate with officials, seeking to keep the consulate open. Despite ongoing contacts, an agreement was not reached.

Following the imposition of British sanctions, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar accused London of interfering in Israel's internal affairs ahead of parliamentary elections. While the Israeli Foreign Ministry declined to comment on the expulsion reports, an Israeli representative told Reuters that any actions against the country would be met with an appropriate response.

The British consulate in Jerusalem, operating for nearly 200 years, serves the UK's relations with the Arab population in Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Gaza, providing consular services. This dispute marks one of the most serious diplomatic crises between Israel and the UK in recent years, with London frequently criticizing Israeli actions in Gaza and settlement policies, while Israel accuses Britain of hostile behavior.