UK Summons Israeli Ambassador Over Settlement Plans

The British government has called on the Israeli ambassador in London over plans to expand settlement building in Palestinian territories.

The Foreign Office has warned of a "strong reaction", should Israel proceed with the plans.

The UK has dismissed reports in the Israel media that the British ambassador in Tel Aviv could be withdrawn.

The summons came as Israel authorised 3,000 additional housing units, just one day after the UN voted to upgrade Palestinian status.

The move by Israel is regarded by many in the international community as a reaction to the UN vote.

Now Daniel Taub, the country’s ambassador to London, has been called to the Foreign Office for a meeting with minister for the Middle East, Alistair Burt.

A Foreign Office spokesman said: "The Foreign Secretary has consistently made it very clear that settlement building, such as the recent Israeli government decision to build 3,000 new housing units, threatens the two-state solution and makes progress through negotiations harder to achieve.

"We have called on the Israeli government to reconsider. We have told the Israeli government that if they go ahead with their decision, then there will be a strong reaction."

The French government has also joined the UK in expressing displeasure at the settlement announcement.

This latest move by Israel could potentially shake Western governments that have previously been steadfast in their support of Israel.

The country wants to build in E1, east of Jerusalem, which would effectively cut the West Bank in two.

Previous US administrations have been given assurances by Israel that it would not build there.

The spokesman added: "Any decision about any other measures the UK might take will depend on the outcome of our discussions with the Israeli government and with international partners including the US and European Union."

(IT)