In a fierce diplomatic volley this week, Israel threatened to shut Frances Consulate General in Jerusalem after Paris announced plans to formally recognize a Palestinian state at the UN in September.
Deputy Foreign Minister Sharon Haskel told France Info that the idea of closing the consulate is now on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus desk. Her comments follow a sharp rebuke from Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, who warned his counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot that President Macron would not be welcome in Israel if the recognition move stays on the agenda.
Officials in Jerusalem argue that Frances decision undermines stability in the Middle East and harms Israels national and security interests. With mounting global pressure to end military operations in Gaza and secure the release of hostages, the stakes have never been higher.
Prime Minister Netanyahu warned that unilateral steps by foreign governments could be met with reciprocal actions. 'But if they take unilateral steps against us, dont be surprised if we take unilateral steps as well,' he said, without detailing what those steps might be.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also weighed in, cautioning Western nations that recognition of a Palestinian state might prompt Israel to annex parts of the West Bank. Meanwhile, farright Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has reportedly drawn up maps for West Bank annexation.
In a sign of regional unease, a United Arab Emirates official called any annexation a 'red line' for the UAE, which normalized ties with Israel under U.S.brokered accords in 2020. As tensions mount, all eyes are on whether diplomacy or further escalation will prevail.
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'Closure of Consulate': Israel threatens France over Palestine move
cgtn.com
