UK keeps Jerusalem consulate open as diplomatic mission

Yesterday 13:05

By: Azzat Manal

UK keeps Jerusalem consulate open as diplomatic mission

The United Kingdom will keep its diplomatic facility in East Jerusalem open but transform it into the UK Mission, Jerusalem, following discussions with the Israeli government, Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband said on Thursday.

The decision came as an Israeli deadline for the closure of the British Consulate General expired. London said the building would remain operational and continue providing essential consular services while maintaining its work with the Palestinian people.

Miliband said Britain does not accept that Israel has the legal authority to close the consulate, which has operated in Jerusalem for nearly two centuries. He also reiterated the UK's longstanding position that East Jerusalem is occupied territory.

Under the new arrangement, the facility will operate independently as the UK Mission, Jerusalem. Britain temporarily withdrew some staff and their families over security concerns but said it intends to rebuild its presence in the coming months.

The dispute has further strained relations between London and Tel Aviv after Britain introduced measures targeting Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. The UK has said its actions are intended to support the viability of a two-state solution and address concerns over settlement expansion.

The British facility has traditionally played a significant role in the UK's engagement with Palestinians in Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza, in addition to providing consular assistance to British nationals in the region.

The confrontation had raised the possibility of further diplomatic measures. Britain had considered expelling Israeli diplomats from London if the consulate was forced to close, although the government has now said it will not take reciprocal action while discussions with Israel continue.

The agreement allows Britain to preserve its diplomatic presence in Jerusalem while avoiding the complete closure of the historic facility. London has stressed that its broader policy remains focused on supporting a two-state solution and promoting peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians.