France’s Foreign Ministry issued a stern warning on Thursday regarding Israel’s reported plans to shut down its consulate in Jerusalem, describing the move as a “serious diplomatic setback” that could escalate tensions in an already volatile region. French officials conveyed deep concern over the potential closure, underscoring the consulate’s critical role in maintaining open channels of communication between Jerusalem and the Palestinian territories. France emphasized that such unilateral actions undermine decades of diplomatic efforts and threaten the prospects for peace negotiations.

In response to the announcement, France’s position was unequivocal, promising a robust diplomatic reaction should Israel proceed with the closure. The French…