Welcome to Ambassador Tom Phillips' new monthly column page where he will provide you with a regular update on his recent activities, those of the Embassy, or simply discuss current events in the region.

If you have any comment, please contact him at ambassador.telaviv@gmail.com.

September 2009 / A peaceful New Year

I have long admired the fact that this period is about deep reflection on the events of the past year.

Summer 2009: Our successful scholars

One of the greatest strengths of Israeli society is its openness and commitment to debate

June 2009: Why the settlements matter

Terms such as 'inside a settlement' and definitions of 'settlement expansion' have proved to be worryingly flexible.

May 2009: Strong trade ties

May was another busy month for Tel Aviv, including a visit by UK Trade & Investment Minister Lord Davies.

April 2009: A look at bilateral relations

In his new monthly column, the Ambassador discusses bilateral relations, emphasising the UK's opposition to boycotts of Israel.