Britain has detained a Foreign Office diplomat over insulting Israel in protest at the Israeli Army's recent offensive in the Gaza Strip.

A Middle East expert and head of the South Asia Group, Rowan Laxton, was arrested after several witnesses alleged that he had used offensive language against Israel and Jewish people after watching a report about the Gaza war on TV in a gym on January 27, the Daily Mail reported on Monday.

Laxton also said that all Israeli soldiers "should be wiped off the map." The report added the diplomat was arrested on charges of "inciting religious hatred" and released on bail until next month.

If convicted, Laxton might face up to seven years of imprisonment and a fine.

"We are aware that a complaint has been made to the Police about an alleged incident involving a member of our staff. The alleged incident was not in the course of his official duties," the Israeli daily Yediot Ahronot quoted The Foreign and Commonwealth Office as commenting on the incident.

Israel's ambassador to Britain, Ron Prosor, also confirmed the incident saying that "If finally it turns out that the diplomat has transgressed, the proper steps will be taken against him."

SB/MMN