Most UK diplomats to leave East Jerusalem consulate, Israel says, as Miliband says 'vital services' to remain

The British consulate in East Jerusalem has transitioned into a 'UK Mission' following a diplomatic dispute with Israel. While the Israeli Foreign Ministry states the consulate is 'closing its operations' and requiring 20 diplomats to leave, the UK Foreign Office maintains the building will remain open with a task force of seven staff to continue services for the Palestinian people. The rift originated from UK sanctions on West Bank settlements, leading to a compromise that prevents immediate tit-for-tat diplomatic expulsions while maintaining separate diplomatic representation for Palestinians and Israelis.

The British consulate in East Jerusalem has transitioned into a 'UK Mission' following a diplomatic dispute with Israel. While the Israeli Foreign Ministry states the consulate is 'closing its operations' and requiring 20 diplomats to leave, the UK Foreign Office maintains the building will remain open with a task force of seven staff to continue services for the Palestinian people. The rift originated from UK sanctions on West Bank settlements, leading to a compromise that prevents immediate tit-for-tat diplomatic expulsions while maintaining separate diplomatic representation for Palestinians and Israelis.