The clash between Tel Aviv and London has escalated following the Israeli government’s decision to close the British consulate in Jerusalem. The measure was taken in response to new British sanctions targeting settler activity in the West Bank.
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Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Shaar, announced the countermeasures immediately after harsh statements in the British Parliament by his counterpart, Ed Miliband. In addition to closing the consulate, Israel has begun the immediate removal of British representatives from the International Coordination and Support Center for Gaza, in the city of Kiryat Gat, where they had been operating under American supervision.
Israeli authorities have also decided to suspend all British training programs for Palestinian Authority security forces in Ramallah.
Meanwhile, Israel has also prepared a list of 12 British public officials who have been barred from entering Israeli territory. Tel Aviv has accused these officials of anti-Semitic and anti-Israel activities.
“Anyone who moves against Israel, Israel will move against them,” Shaar declared.
During his remarks, the Israeli foreign minister further toughened his rhetoric, saying that his people had not returned to their own land after 2,000 years only to surrender it “under pressure from Islamists and enlightened circles.”
Shaar also warned that states supporting such a position would lose their influence and role in regional developments. His statement suggested that similar measures could also be taken against other Western capitals.
