Former Israeli ambassador to the UK ‘warned over London security breaches’

Daniel Taub was Israel's ambassador to the UK between 2011 and 2015

Queen Elizabeth II shakes hands with the ambassador of Israel Daniel Taub in 2011 (Getty)

A former Israeli ambassador to the United Kingdom allegedly returned home after being warned on multiple occasions regarding security breaches at his official residence in London.

The security breaches, according to reports in the Guardian, related to ‘late night visits’ by individuals to Daniel Taub’s London address. The newspaper adds that Israeli authorities had raised the issue repeatedly and Mr Taub returned to Israel after the visits continued.

Mr Taub was Israel’s ambassador to the UK between 2011 and 2015 before he returned to Jerusalem. Originally born in London, he renounced his UK passport when he emigrated to Israel three decades ago. His replacement, Mark Regrev, is set to arrive in the capital in next month.

According to the Jewish Chronicle, Israeli media referred to the former ambassador as a senior diplomat serving in Europe after his name circulated on the internet.

Referring to claims made online, the Israeli ministry of foreign affairs said it “expressed its disgust at the publication of untruthful allegations regarding one of the finest members of its foreign service”.

“The ministry emphasises that following a thorough investigation by the inspector general of the ministry, it was determined that there had been no criminal or disciplinary wrongdoing and that the issue related to a breach of security protocol. The issue has been addressed and concluded.”

Speaking as he left his posting as Israel’s ambassador to the UK in 2015, Mr Taub said in a statement it had been an “extraordinary privilege” to represent Israel in the UK.

He added: “We will head back to Israel confident that these relations, like the wonderful warm friendships we have enjoyed here, will not end when we leave but will last and thrive for many years to come.”