During the 69th anniversary of Israel’s independence on Capitol Hill on Tuesday Vice President Mike Pence announced that President Donald Trump is seriously considering moving the US embassy in the country from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.
The announcement, something he pledged to do as a candidate, comes day before the scheduled White House meeting, on Wednesday, with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas.
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Some experts have warned that relocation could inflame tensions in Middle East. However, Trump and Abbas are expected to address options for pursuing peace between Israel and Palestine.
Kerry: Moving US embassy to Jerusalem would cause ‘explosion in the region’
The full Pence statement said “The president of the United States, as we speak, is giving serious consideration into moving the American embassy in Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.”
The vice president added “To be clear, the president has also personally committed to resolving the Israeli and Palestinian conflict.”
According to a pool report Pence also sought to reassure the audience that, while compromises will have to be made, Trump “will never compromise the safety and security of the Jewish state of Israel—not now, not ever.”
President Donald Trump praises Israel, encourages sides to seek peace
At a news conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in February, Trump was asked about the idea of a two-state solution to the conflict. Trump said “I am looking at two-state and one-state, and I like the one that both parties like. I’m very happy with the one that both parties like. I can live with either one.”
He also asked Netanyahu to “hold off” on Jewish settlement construction in territory Palestinians claim for their state.
Associated Press
