Israel Considers Expelling British Representatives From Gaza Coordination Headquarters Amid Rising Tensions

Israel is reportedly considering expelling British representatives from the International Coordination Headquarters for Gaza located in Kiryat Gat, following increased criticism from London regarding Israeli government policies. This development was reported by the Financial Times on August 27, 2026. The headquarters, established in October 2025, is led by American officers alongside the IDF and includes military and diplomatic representatives from about 50 countries and international organizations.

The move comes after Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar ordered the expulsion of Dutch representatives from the same headquarters earlier this week. This decision was in response to the Netherlands passing a law banning trade in products from Judea and Samaria, East Jerusalem, and the Golan Heights, which is set to take effect next month. Dutch representatives were given one week to leave Israel. Sa'ar stated, "Our message is clear: those who act against Israel will have no foothold in the area. Israel will not allow actions against it without response." Earlier this year, Spanish representatives were also expelled from the headquarters.

In recent weeks, Israeli officials have also discussed the possibility of similar expulsions of representatives from Germany and Italy, although there is disagreement over whether such actions require approval from the U.S.-led Peace Council or if Israel can act independently. The Peace Council has stated it continues to work with Israel to maintain and strengthen multinational coordination.

The background to these tensions includes the UK, Germany, and Italy, along with nearly 20 other countries and the European Commission, jointly opposing Israeli plans for construction tenders near Ma'ale Adumim. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham recently announced intentions to promote a ban on trade in goods from the West Bank settlements. British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband declared that the UK would not accept actions undermining the two-state solution.

Israeli and European officials have declined to comment on the potential expulsions of German and Italian representatives. A source close to the Israeli government emphasized good relations with Germany and Italy. Meanwhile, the recent visit by U.S. envoy Jared Kushner to the region failed to break the deadlock between the parties. British sources reportedly are not surprised by the possibility of expulsion, viewing it as a predictable response following actions against Spain and the Netherlands.