UK reportedly warns it will expel Israeli diplomats if East Jerusalem consulate is closed
The Guardian and the Financial Times reported that the UK has threatened to expel Israeli diplomats if Israel goes ahead with the closure of the British consulate in East Jerusalem. Israeli media, as relayed by Al Jazeera and others, put the number at 27 and said the closure was ordered for 8 October. Al Jazeera described those reports as unverified, and the Foreign Office declined to comment on speculation. The dispute follows British measures against West Bank settlements, including a ban on settlement imports.
Expelling diplomats is a serious step that few allies take against each other. It would deepen a row that already involves sanctions and entry bans.
No direct effect on travel to Israel or the West Bank yet; check Foreign Office advice before going.
A threat is a negotiating position. Watch 8 October, the date Israel set.
DailyDrop U.K. edition No. 2 · Morning · TUE., OCT. 6, 2026