Israel has ordered the closure of the British consulate in East Jerusalem following London's plans to impose trade sanctions on Israeli settlements in the West Bank. The dispute, which centers on the UK's decision to halt trade from these settlements, has further damaged strained ties between the allies as an election looms.
In response to the order, workers removed signs and plaques at the nearly 200-year-old facility overnight. The diplomatic site has been downgraded in status from a consulate general to a mission.
British Foreign Minister Ed Miliband stated on Thursday that the building would remain open as an independent and operational facility. Now designated as the UK Mission, Jerusalem, the site will continue to serve the Palestinian people with reduced staff. This transition occurs 30 days after Israel's foreign minister first ordered the closure.