Not only will Israel never relinquish sovereignty over Jerusalem, but other nations also have a vested interest in supporting it. Public and political debate in Israel often focuses on the French Consulate in Jerusalem. Yet the reality is far broader. In east Jerusalem, several foreign consulates – including those of the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, Sweden, and Turkey – operate as independent diplomatic missions. In practice, many of them bypass the State of Israel and function as logistical and political hubs for the Palestinian Authority.
Their presence has created what can only be described as a “Palestinian diplomatic district” in east Jerusalem – not neutral institutions but active centers working to undermine Israeli sovereignty and to promote the idea of Jerusalem as the future capital of a Palestinian state. Instead of serving their own nationals, many consulates provide Palestinians with visas, scholarships, and direct financial support.
These consulates fund cultural, educational, and infrastructure initiatives that, while presented as “civil,” in reality establish parallel institutions to Israeli governance. By avoiding recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, these consulates advance policies that frame the city as “Palestinian,” thereby legitimizing non-recognition of Israel.
This reality goes far beyond technical diplomacy. It reinforces the dangerous narrative that Jerusalem is a “contested city,” not Israel’s united capital. By sustaining a parallel diplomatic presence in east Jerusalem, foreign governments lend tangible legitimacy to Palestinian claims, not just in theory, but in daily practice, on the ground. (Read More)
