UK will not close Jerusalem consulate after Israeli move, says foreign secretary

UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband announced in a statement on Thursday that Britain will not close its consulate general building in Jerusalem, but it will be renamed the 'British Mission' effective immediately, following discussions with the Israeli government.

Miliband said Britain has temporarily withdrawn some staff and their families to ensure their safety and security, according to Bloomberg News.

He added, "Over the coming months, we will work to restore our presence, and we will not take similar measures as long as these talks continue and remain credible."

Reuters reported that Israeli authorities removed the British consulate signs in Jerusalem after the deadline set by Israel for its closure expired.

Tensions have been rising amid British sanctions targeting Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank.