The Archbishop of Canterbury has joined the head of the Catholic Church in England and Wales in expressing concern at the potential for the British embassy in Israel to be moved from Tel Aviv to the contested holy city of Jerusalem.

In a statement to Jewish News, a spokesman for Most Rev Justin Welby said :

"The archbishop is concerned about the potential impact of moving the British embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem before a negotiated settlement between Palestinians and Israelis has been reached.

"He is in touch with Christian leaders in the Holy Land and continues to pray for the peace of Jerusalem."

It's understood Liz Truss discussed the idea of relocating the Embassy with her Israeli counterpart Yair Lapid last month during the United Nations' General Assembly.

Last week Cardinal Vincent Nicholls warned the Prime Minister there would be 'seriously damaging' consequences if the Embassy was relocated.

Writing on Twitter he said any move would hinder any "possibility of lasting peace in the region" and would damage the "international reputation of the United Kingdom".

Former US President sparked controversy by moving the US Embassy to Jerusalem from Tel Aviv in 2018. 

The location is particularly sensitive because both Israelis and Palestinians consider Jerusalem to be their capital. Most countries have kept their diplomatic presence in Tel Aviv until a two-state solution can be reached.