The United Kingdom has warned that removing its representatives from the US-led coordination centre overseeing postwar efforts in Gaza would undermine international efforts to improve conditions in the territory.
A UK government spokesperson said the country remains committed to implementing the 20-Point Plan for Gaza and contributing to efforts aimed at improving the situation on the ground.
“The UK is committed to the implementation of the 20-Point Plan in Gaza and playing our part in improving the situation on the ground,” the spokesperson said in a statement.
The UK also confirmed that, at the request of the United States and the Board of Peace, it would continue working at the International Gaza Support Centre (IGSC) alongside the US, Israel, international partners and United Nations agencies in support of UN Security Council Resolution 2803, which endorsed the American plan for Gaza.
“Removing the UK or other partners would undermine these shared efforts,” the spokesperson added.
The statement follows reports that Israel is considering removing British officials from the coordination centre amid growing tensions between London and Jerusalem over Israel’s controversial plans to expand settlements in the E1 area of the West Bank.
The Financial Times first reported that Israel was weighing the move. A source familiar with the matter subsequently confirmed the report to The Times of Israel, adding that Israel was also considering “other measures” against the UK.
UK warns expulsion from Gaza coordination centre would ‘undermine’ peace efforts