Lengthy discussions between both sides lead to ban being overturned.

The Tricycle Theatre in London has lifted its ban on the UK Jewish Film Festival (UKJFF), which it had objected to being sponsored by the Israeli embassy, amid the Gaza crisis.

The U-turn follows lengthy discussions between the venue and festival organisers.

A joint statement from the UKJFF and Tricycle Theatre said: “Following lengthy discussions, the Tricycle has now withdrawn its objection and invited back the UKJFF on the same terms as in previous years with no restrictions on funding from the embassy of Israel in London.

“The UKJFF and the Tricycle have agreed to work together to rebuild their relationship with a view to holding events in the future.”

The move comes too late for the Tricycle to stage this year’s event with festival organisers having found alternative venues.

The Tricycle had been due to screen 26 films as part of the November event. It has hosted the festival for the last eight years.

The theatre’s initial decision sparked controversy in the media and among the public with a number of demonstrations taking place outside the venue.