Britain could expel Israeli diplomats if Israel closes the British consulate in East Jerusalem

Britain could expel approximately 30 Israeli diplomats in response to Israel’s decision to close the British consulate in East Jerusalem, according to sources cited by Reuters. The move would represent a further escalation of diplomatic tensions between the two countries.

Israel ordered the consulate closed and British diplomats withdrawn from the city on September 8, after London announced that, starting next year, it would impose trade restrictions on products originating from Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. The 30-day deadline set by the Israeli authorities expires on Thursday.

Four sources familiar with the situation said London was considering expelling a similar number of Israeli diplomats from the embassy in the United Kingdom. It is unclear how quickly the measure could be implemented or whether a final decision has been made.

Britain is still trying to prevent the consulate’s closure. The UK national security adviser, Jonathan Powell, discreetly visited Israel last week, but the discussions have so far failed to produce an agreement. London has also asked several European states to intervene with the Israeli authorities.

The consulate, located in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood, manages Britain’s relations with Palestinians in East Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza and provides consular services. The British and Israeli foreign ministries did not comment on reports of possible expulsions.