Understand
Most UK diplomats to leave East Jerusalem consulate as Miliband states mission will remain
Overview
Most diplomats are leaving the British consulate in occupied East Jerusalem following Israeli actions, though the UK insists the building will remain open as a UK Mission with a reduced staff presence.
Key points
- Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that 20 diplomats and the Consul General will leave Israel, while a task force of seven staff will remain with limited activity.
- UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband confirmed that staff have been temporarily withdrawn for security reasons but emphasised that the mission will continue to work with the Palestinian people.
- Israel announced plans in September to shut the consulate in retaliation for UK sanctions on Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank.