Israel Backs Down on Threat to Close British Consulate in Jerusalem

Israel has reversed its threat to close the British Consulate in Jerusalem, with Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar announcing that the consulate has "finished its role." This marks a significant shift from Israel's earlier ultimatum to shut down the diplomatic mission.

Sa'ar stated that the dialogue between the two countries will continue. The decision comes after Britain clarified that the consulate would remain operational and continue providing services to Palestinians, despite Israel's initial demand for its closure. The dispute arose following British sanctions and a boycott against Israel.

According to Sa'ar's announcement, the Consul General and 20 other diplomats are ending their terms and will leave Israel. However, Israel will permit a reduced British staff of seven diplomats to continue operating from the consulate building with significantly limited activities. Sa'ar attributed the Israeli action to the "actions of the Labour government."

British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband asserted that the UK does not accept Israel's claim of legal right to close the nearly 200-year-old consulate. He reiterated Britain's long-standing position that East Jerusalem is occupied territory. Miliband confirmed that the consulate will not close and will continue to provide essential services to Palestinians, maintaining Britain's presence and support for a two-state solution.

In response to the developments, Britain has apparently stepped back from its threat to expel Israeli diplomats. Miliband indicated that the UK will focus on rebuilding its presence in the coming months and will not take retaliatory measures while credible talks are ongoing. Israel released images of the consulate building, showing the official sign removed from the entrance.