Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has called on the Israel prime minister to close the British consulate in East Jerusalem today. According to the minister, the institution «is openly acting on behalf of the Palestinian Authority», and its closure should be «a decisive response from Israel to British insolence».
This statement follows the United Kingdom‘s decision to impose sanctions on Israeli goods produced in settlements on the West Bank. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar has called a press conference for later this afternoon.
Diplomatic tension and domestic politics
As reported by Ynet, citing an Israeli diplomatic source involved in the matter, London‘s decision «stems from the domestic political considerations of the prime minister and the foreign minister, who are trying to appease their Labour base». The source noted that such actions cause «serious damage», as they will be perceived as interference in Israel‘s elections.
The source also warned that the United Kingdom‘s decision could provoke a «very harsh» response from Israel.
Source: ANSA
