Israel Moves to Close British Consulate in East Jerusalem

(MENAFN) Israel announces plans to shut the British Consulate in occupied East Jerusalem, which serves as a key channel for relations with the Palestinians, following Britain’s decision to restrict trade involving goods produced in Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank.

Foreign Minister Gideon Saar says the measures also include removing British representatives from the International Gaza Support Center in Kiryat Gat and ending British programs that train Palestinian Authority security forces in the West Bank.

Israel also decides to bar 12 British lawmakers and nationals from entering the country. Those affected include Jeremy Corbyn, Zarah Sultana, Naz Shah, Diane Abbott, Hannah Spencer, Carla Denyer, Sian Berry, Ellie Chowns, John McDonnell, Richard Burgon, Adrian Ramsay and Fahad Ansari, director of the London-based Riverway to the Sea organization.

The Israeli measures follow an announcement by British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband that the UK will prohibit imports from Israeli settlements in the West Bank, citing the existence of "ethnic cleansing of Palestinians."

Britain’s decision comes after Israel advances plans to construct 1,200 additional homes in the occupied territory. The move draws broad international criticism, as Israeli settlements in the West Bank are considered illegal under international law.

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