Diplomatic tensions between Israel and several European countries have intensified over sanctions targeting West Bank settlements, most recently with Israel's October 2026 order to close the British consulate in East Jerusalem. In response, the UK conveyed threats of expelling up to 27 Israeli diplomats in a tit-for-tat measure, though reports indicate London may delay or avoid action pending Israel's October 27 election or further talks. Similar disputes with the Netherlands involved summoning ambassadors and revoking credentials for lower-level staff rather than full ambassador expulsions. Earlier 2026 actions, such as South Africa's January move against a deputy envoy, have not triggered broader follow-on expulsions. These developments reflect ongoing bilateral friction without confirmed ambassador-level expulsions to date, aligning with trader consensus on the low likelihood of such an event by year-end.