Israel targets UK in retaliation for West Bank sanctions

The British consulate on the day of its closure, following announcements by Gideon Sa'ar, Israel's foreign minister, in Jerusalem, on September 8, 2026. JAMAL AWAD/REUTERS Israel's diplomatic isolation has deepened. After the United Kingdom, France, Canada and nine other countries announced on Tuesday, September 8, sanctions targeting trade in goods produced in West Bank settlements, Israel responded with a series of countermeasures. "The message to any government that harms us is clear: whoever acts against Israel, Israel will act against them," said Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar during a press conference. Israel's reprisals mainly targeted the UK, which it accused of leading the move toward sanctions against trade with the settlements. The most significant measure was the closure of the British consulate in Jerusalem. British diplomats at the International Support Center for Gaza are to be expelled, while about a dozen political figures are now banned from entering Israel. British teams present in Ramallah, in the West Bank, to train Palestinian security forces, will also be expelled – a measure that will weaken the Palestinian Authority's ability to carry out its security missions. You have 76.06% of this article left to read. The rest is for subscribers only.