Britain Renames Jerusalem Consulate After Israel Orders Closure

In a last‑minute compromise, Britain and Israel agreed that the historic British diplomatic mission in Jerusalem will remain open but at a reduced scale and under a new name. The nearly 200‑year‑old consulate, founded in 1839, will now be called the “UK Mission.” Israel ordered the closure of the consulate amid a sanctions dispute, prompting the departure of 20 British diplomats, including the consul general. The mission will continue to operate with only seven staff members, focusing on limited diplomatic functions. The move marks a significant adjustment in UK‑Israel diplomatic relations following the dispute.