Israel takes tough step against Britain - London caught off guard

Israel demanded that Britain close its consulate in Jerusalem within 30 days in response to London's sanctions against Israeli settlements. British diplomats in Ramallah and participants in the coordination mechanism for Gaza were given seven days to leave. The conflict has moved beyond statements.

Israel demanded that Britain close its consulate in Jerusalem within 30 days. This decision was a response to sanctions that London imposed against Israeli settlements in Judea and Samaria. The closure of the consulate was announced by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar, who called Britain's actions unacceptable interference in internal affairs. The decision was coordinated with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The British consulate in Jerusalem handled relations with Palestinians in Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria, and the Gaza Strip, serving as one of London's main channels of communication with the Palestinian Authority. Additionally, British representatives participating in the US-led coordination mechanism for the Gaza Strip and diplomats in Ramallah must leave their positions within seven days. Israel also banned entry to several British politicians and ended Britain's involvement in training Palestinian Authority security forces. British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband said he regrets Israel's decision, but the government had assessed potential consequences in advance and does not intend to abandon its chosen policy.