UK warns it may expel 27 Israeli diplomats

The United Kingdom warned it could expel 27 Israeli diplomats after Israel said it would close its East Jerusalem consulate, potentially escalating diplomatic tensions with western allies, officials said.

UK warning tied to consulate plan

Officials framed the action as a proportional response if the closure proceeds. They said any move to expel diplomats would be targeted at embassy and consular staff and aimed at preserving diplomatic reciprocity; further details on whom would be affected were not provided.

Regional and alliance risks

Officials said London could announce a formal response within 72 hours. The situation remains fluid and will hinge on whether the consulate closure goes ahead and on subsequent decisions by both governments.

Officials said the warning followed reports that Israel intends to shut the East Jerusalem consulate, a decision that London views as crossing a diplomatic red line. The number of diplomats cited — 27 — was given by officials and has not been independently confirmed.

Diplomatic expulsions at this scale would test ties between the United Kingdom and Israel and could prompt responses from other Western capitals, officials said. Governments are watching how Israel proceeds with the consulate plan and whether London follows through on its warning.