UK rebrands its Jerusalem consulate as the UK Mission, reducing staff from 20 to seven amid a diplomatic standoff with Israel. The change follows an agreement to avoid a crisis after Israel ordered the closure of the 200-year-old consulate in retaliation for British sanctions on Israeli settlements.
The consulate, in East Jerusalem, will remain open under the new name, with British diplomats temporarily withdrawn to ensure safety. Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar confirmed the closure of the consulate's previous role, but allowed limited operations. British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband rejected Israel's claim of legal right to close the consulate, which is in territory recognized as occupied.
The agreement prevents further deterioration in relations between the UK and Israel, with both sides agreeing to hold back reciprocal measures. The UK will focus on rebuilding its diplomatic presence in the coming months, while Israel's government faces an election, complicating its stance on the issue.
The dispute highlights tensions over the status of East Jerusalem and the UK's support for a two-state solution. Israel's actions are seen as a diplomatic attack, with UK officials emphasizing their commitment to the consulate's continued operation despite the reduced staff.