Israeli embassy officer quits after UK lawmaker 'take down' scandal

Shai Masot, a political officer at the London embassy, was secretly recorded in October by Al Jazeera speaking in an undiplomatic manner about a number of British MPs.

By JPOST.COM STAFF
Flags are seen above a souvenir kiosk near Big Ben clock at the Houses of Parliament in central London (photo credit: REUTERS)
Flags are seen above a souvenir kiosk near Big Ben clock at the Houses of Parliament in central London
(photo credit: REUTERS)
An Israeli embassy worker in the UK, who spurred controversy after a recording emerged of him discussing his desire to "take down" anti-Israel officials in Britain, has resigned, the Foreign Ministry announced Thursday.
Shai Masot, a political officer at the London embassy, was secretly recorded in October by Al Jazeera speaking in a clearly undiplomatic manner about a number of British MPs. His remarks also regarded Foreign Office Minister Sir Alan Duncan and Foreign Minister Boris Johnson, whom he called "an idiot."
Israel apologises over embassy worker"s vow to "take down" UK minister
Regarding Duncan, however, Masot said he was "doing [sic] a lot of problems," while his dinner partner said the comments "sounded like a conspiracy."
Masot was filmed while talking at a restaurant to Maria Strizzolo, who was previously an aide to another minister, and an undercover reporter.
Strizzolo proposed "a scandal," however the pair did not elaborate in the footage released by Al Jazeera.
After repots of the footage emerged Sunday, Israel's ambassador in London apologized over the incident. Masot was expected to step down from his post in light of the matter.
Al Jazeera will broadcast four documentaries with additional material beginning January 15.