UK Downgrades East Jerusalem Consulate Amidst Diplomatic Tensions with Israel

Britain and Israel have agreed to downgrade the UK's consulate in East Jerusalem to a 'U.K. Mission,' with Israel noting the building's change in function and the departure of 20 diplomats. This development stems from Israel's earlier intention to close the consulate following the United Kingdom's ban on trade with Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, signaling a notable escalation in diplomatic relations between the two nations.