UK Could Expel Israeli Diplomats as Consulate Dispute Escalates

Britain could expel Israeli diplomats if Israel carries out a decision to close the British consulate in East Jerusalem this week, according to assessments from four sources.

The prospect of expulsions marks a potential escalation in a dispute between the two countries over sanctions targeting Israeli settlements.

The sources indicated that a British response would hinge on Israel implementing the closure decision. Their assessments do not establish that Britain has made a final decision to expel diplomats.

The consulate’s fate this week is therefore a key test of whether the sanctions dispute will widen into a deeper diplomatic confrontation.