Video: Signs removed from British consulate in occupied East Jerusalem

On October 8, workers removed signs and plaques from the British consulate in East Jerusalem after Israel ordered its closure within 30 days of Britain announcing sanctions on goods made in illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. This move further strained ties between the UK and Israel, with the UK warning it could expel up to 27 Israeli diplomats as a retaliatory measure if the consulate closed. The British consulate had been operating since 1838 and was involved in handling relations with Palestinians in East Jerusalem and beyond. Despite efforts by UK National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell to negotiate, Israel remained firm on closing the consulate, citing London’s interference in its internal affairs as a reason for their decision.