Israel to take retaliatory steps against France, close UK J'lem consulate after sanctions – report

Israel is reportedly planning retaliatory measures against France and other nations that have imposed sanctions on Israeli settlements, mirroring actions taken against the United Kingdom. This follows Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar's announcement of steps against the UK, including the immediate withdrawal of personnel from the Civil-Military Coordination Center (CMCC) headquarters in Kiryat Gat and the anticipated closure of the British Consulate in Jerusalem within weeks. A British official described Israel's response as "regrettable," stating that British ministers felt a response to the situation in the West Bank was a "moral and even security issue." The official added that the UK's move was not an attack on Israel but a "response to extremists and violence," noting that UK representatives were sent to the CMCC at the United States' request.