UK Reportedly Warns It Could Expel 27 Israeli Diplomats Over Consulate Closure

Britain has reportedly warned Israeli officials that it could expel 27 diplomats from Israel’s embassy in London if Israel proceeds with closing the British consulate in East Jerusalem. Ambassador Simon Walters conveyed the conditional message, matching the number of British diplomats working at the consulate. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar announced the closure after Britain imposed sanctions targeting Israeli communities in Judea and Samaria. The closure and withdrawal of the consulate staff’s diplomatic credentials are scheduled for October 8. The British embassy declined to comment on the reported warning.