US President Donald Trump on Monday broke away from tradition and, against all advice to the contrary, recognised Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.
In a press conference beamed from the White House, the US president said it was the ” right thing to do”, something that has to be done.
“I have determined that it is time to officially recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel,” Trump said.
“After more than two decades of waivers, we are no closer to a lasting peace agreement between Israel and the Palestinians.”
Trump reiterated the US’ stance on a two-state solution to the impasse between the Palestinians and the Israeli. He said, “The US remains deeply committed to brokering a peace agreement that is acceptable to both sides”.
He said he has ordered the State Department to begin the process of moving the US Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.
Jerusalem is a highly-contested city which contains sites sacred to the three major monotheistic faiths.
East Jerusalem, which includes the Old City, was annexed by Israel after the Six Day War of 1967, but is not internationally recognised as part of Israel.
The decision to move the embassy fulfils a campaign promise Trump made and will appeal to his right-wing base.
