Most UK Diplomats to Leave East Jerusalem Consulate, Israel Says, as Miliband Says Vital Services Remain

Consulate Status and Staff Reductions

Most diplomats will depart from the British consulate in occupied East Jerusalem, according to statements from Israeli authorities. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that 20 diplomats, including the consul general, are ending their duties and leaving Israel. Saar added that the consulate had closed its operations and its sign had been removed in compliance with an order announced on 8 September following UK sanctions on Israeli settlements.

UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband stated that the building will not close and will instead operate as the UK Mission, Jerusalem. Miliband confirmed that a number of staff and families were temporarily withdrawn to ensure safety and security, noting that an understanding had not been reached regarding necessary security assurances for staff and premises.

Remaining Operations and Diplomatic Context

An agreement between the two governments allows a task force of seven UK diplomats to remain at the facility with a limited scope of activity. Miliband stated that these remaining personnel would be independent and operational to continue delivering services and work involving the Palestinian people. The UK embassy in Tel Aviv remains unaffected by these measures.

British officials maintain that the newly designated mission remains protected by the Vienna Convention, with remaining staff retaining previous privileges, immunities, and travel capabilities. Further details of the arrangement remain to be finalized following the agreement reached on Wednesday night.