Britain's top security adviser visits Israel to try to stop closure of its East Jerusalem consulate

Britain's National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell quietly visited Israel last week in a bid to prevent the closure of the British consulate in East Jerusalem, which Israel ordered after Britain announced sanctions on Israeli settlements. The 30-day deadline expires on Thursday, and talks have failed to reach an agreement. Israel's foreign minister said the consulate will close as announced. Britain has reportedly threatened to expel up to 27 Israeli diplomats in retaliation. The dispute has strained relations between the two allies, with Britain criticizing Israel's actions in Gaza and over settler attacks.