Thank you for contacting me about the location of the British embassy in Israel.
The position of the UK Government has remained constant since April 1950, when the UK extended de jure recognition to the State of Israel, but withheld recognition of sovereignty over Jerusalem pending a final determination of its status. The UK Government recognises Israel’s de facto authority over West Jerusalem, but, in line with UN Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 242 (1967) and subsequent UNSC resolutions, regards East Jerusalem as under Israeli occupation.
The UK Government's view is that a final determination of the status of Jerusalem should be sought as part of a negotiated settlement between Israelis and Palestinians. It must ensure Jerusalem is a shared capital of the Israeli and Palestinian states, with access and religious rights of both peoples respected.
The British Embassy to Israel is based in Tel Aviv and the UK Government has no plans for this to change. Israel is a close friend and a key strategic partner, built on decades of co-operation. The UK will continue to strengthen our relationship with Israel through our embassy in Tel Aviv.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
Craig Whittaker MP
December 2022