Most UK diplomats are to leave the British consulate in East Jerusalem, while Foreign Secretary David Miliband has said the UK’s mission will remain in place.
The change affects the majority of British diplomatic staff based at the consulate. No further details about the timing or practical arrangements for their departure have been provided in the available information.
The development comes after Israel said in September that it would take action in response to UK sanctions imposed on illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank. The source material does not specify what measures Israel said it would take.
Miliband’s statement indicates that, despite the planned departure of most diplomats, Britain intends to maintain its diplomatic mission in East Jerusalem. The available information does not set out how the remaining operation will be organised or describe any further response from the Israeli government.
