UK to expel 27 Israeli diplomats if east Jerusalem consulate closed, British diplomats expelled

Senior British officials have made it clear to Israel that if the British Consulate in east Jerusalem is closed and British diplomats are expelled, the UK will respond by expelling 27 Israeli diplomats, along with their families, two sources familiar with the matter told The Jerusalem Post on Monday.

The consulate is expected to close on October 8, following an order issued by Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar.

The move reportedly follows Britain's economic sanctions on the West Bank.

In addition, Britain's top national security official quietly visited Israel last week in a bid to prevent the closure of the consulate, three sources told Reuters.

UK National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell, whose visit Britain's government has not disclosed, held talks with Israeli officials but failed to reach an agreement to keep the consulate open, the sources said, speaking on condition of anonymity.